What do you think?
Rate this book
Kentucky Silverleaf #2
Second Chances
A family under pressure.
A rivalry that won’t stay buried.
An emotional season where everything could change.
Derby season has arrived in Kentucky horse country—and the powerful Haverly family of Silverleaf is closer than ever to racing’s greatest prize.
Their colt, Royal Julep, has earned a coveted spot on the road to Churchill Downs. But in the glittering world of thoroughbred racing, victory is never guaranteed—and neither is peace within the family itself.
Old rivalries are stirring again as ambitious breeder Memphis Santopolo makes bold moves that threaten Silverleaf’s future. At the same time, the Haverlys face deeply personal challenges of their own. Clayton struggles to balance the responsibility of protecting the family legacy while worrying about his young son’s troubling health concerns. Caroline dares to hope that motherhood will finally bring the joy she has longed for. And Beau—Silverleaf’s charming free spirit—finds himself unexpectedly drawn to a woman who may change his life forever.
As Derby fever grips Kentucky and tensions rise both inside and outside the Silverleaf gates, the Haverly family must stand together like never before.
Because the road to greatness is rarely smooth…
and sometimes the most important victories happen far from the winner’s circle.
SECOND CHANCES continues the sweeping Kentucky Silverleaf family saga—where love, rivalry, and legacy collide in the glamorous world of Kentucky thoroughbred racing. Perfect for fans of Robyn Carr, Susan Wiggs, and emotional family dramas like This is Us.
A rivalry that won’t stay buried.
An emotional season where everything could change.
Derby season has arrived in Kentucky horse country—and the powerful Haverly family of Silverleaf is closer than ever to racing’s greatest prize.
Their colt, Royal Julep, has earned a coveted spot on the road to Churchill Downs. But in the glittering world of thoroughbred racing, victory is never guaranteed—and neither is peace within the family itself.
Old rivalries are stirring again as ambitious breeder Memphis Santopolo makes bold moves that threaten Silverleaf’s future. At the same time, the Haverlys face deeply personal challenges of their own. Clayton struggles to balance the responsibility of protecting the family legacy while worrying about his young son’s troubling health concerns. Caroline dares to hope that motherhood will finally bring the joy she has longed for. And Beau—Silverleaf’s charming free spirit—finds himself unexpectedly drawn to a woman who may change his life forever.
As Derby fever grips Kentucky and tensions rise both inside and outside the Silverleaf gates, the Haverly family must stand together like never before.
Because the road to greatness is rarely smooth…
and sometimes the most important victories happen far from the winner’s circle.
SECOND CHANCES continues the sweeping Kentucky Silverleaf family saga—where love, rivalry, and legacy collide in the glamorous world of Kentucky thoroughbred racing. Perfect for fans of Robyn Carr, Susan Wiggs, and emotional family dramas like This is Us.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2026
2 people are currently reading
981 people want to read
About the author
Kellie Coates Gilbert
54 books345 followers⭐️ USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR ⭐️
Kellie Coates Gilbert has won readers’ hearts with her compelling and highly emotional stories about women and the relationships that define their lives. A former legal investigator, she is especially known for keeping readers turning pages and for creating nuanced characters who seem real.
In addition to garnering hundreds of five-star reviews, Kellie has been described by RT Book Reviews as a “deft, crisp storyteller.” Her books were featured as Barnes & Noble Top Shelf Picks and were awarded a coveted spot on the Library Journal’s Best Book List.
Born and raised near Sun Valley, Idaho, Kellie now lives with her husband of over thirty-five years in Dallas, where she spends most days by her pool drinking sweet tea and writing the stories of her heart.
Kellie Coates Gilbert has won readers’ hearts with her compelling and highly emotional stories about women and the relationships that define their lives. A former legal investigator, she is especially known for keeping readers turning pages and for creating nuanced characters who seem real.
In addition to garnering hundreds of five-star reviews, Kellie has been described by RT Book Reviews as a “deft, crisp storyteller.” Her books were featured as Barnes & Noble Top Shelf Picks and were awarded a coveted spot on the Library Journal’s Best Book List.
Born and raised near Sun Valley, Idaho, Kellie now lives with her husband of over thirty-five years in Dallas, where she spends most days by her pool drinking sweet tea and writing the stories of her heart.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 30, 2026
I am here to tell you if you haven’t started reading the new Kentucky Silverleaf series by Kellie Coates Gilbert, now is the time. Book two, Second Chances arrived on the shelves today and Book one titled Silverleaf was so interesting and a complete surprise to me. I thought these books would be too much racing and not enough family ties and romance going on, but I was wrong. These books were great and there is more to come. They held my interest and drew me in pretty deep.
This weekend is the Kentucky Derby and this book is all about the prep before the derby and the day of. There is a lot of preparation for the family. After all they are one of the older and respected families in the Kentucky horse racing community. The ladies have to look the part along with the men.
There is a lot of rivalry in horse racing and a lot of money. We get to learn some of the behind the scenes things that go on which turned out to be interesting. You don’t have to enjoy the sport to enjoy the Kentucky Silverleaf Series. There is a lot going on in the Haverly family to keep you entertained. Not only do the adults have a thing or two going on, but the kids will keep you smiling.
I have found myself in love with yet another series. I highly recommend the Kentucky Silverleaf Series by Kellie Coates Gilbert. What a better weekend to start this series than Kentucky Derby weekend! It really does deserve a spot on your nightstand. Until next time…Happy Reading!
Oh! Don’t forget to read the Afterword by Leona Jefferson. She might just be my favorite character in the whole series. She is a hoot.
Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review. Even a few words help.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
This weekend is the Kentucky Derby and this book is all about the prep before the derby and the day of. There is a lot of preparation for the family. After all they are one of the older and respected families in the Kentucky horse racing community. The ladies have to look the part along with the men.
There is a lot of rivalry in horse racing and a lot of money. We get to learn some of the behind the scenes things that go on which turned out to be interesting. You don’t have to enjoy the sport to enjoy the Kentucky Silverleaf Series. There is a lot going on in the Haverly family to keep you entertained. Not only do the adults have a thing or two going on, but the kids will keep you smiling.
I have found myself in love with yet another series. I highly recommend the Kentucky Silverleaf Series by Kellie Coates Gilbert. What a better weekend to start this series than Kentucky Derby weekend! It really does deserve a spot on your nightstand. Until next time…Happy Reading!
Oh! Don’t forget to read the Afterword by Leona Jefferson. She might just be my favorite character in the whole series. She is a hoot.
Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review. Even a few words help.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
May 2, 2026
Love this second book in this wonderful series ! I want to visit Kentucky someday and see this derby ! Love the family dynamics and the settings . Can’t wait to see what happens next !
Review of advance copy received from Author
Solid Second Set. This book picks up shortly after where Silverleaf, Book 1 of this new series, ended - so absolutely read it first - and continues the story of the Haverly family, largely extending plot lines from the first book for some of the family members... and introducing a few new ones for others.
Fans of family dramas featuring elite families of some form - think a less soapy Dynasty or a more rural Blue Bloods or similar - are going to love this new series and this tale in particular, as there are some dynamics that play out in both very fun and very "AW SNAP, IT DONE HAPPENED NOW!" manners.
While this is perhaps a touch spicier than the prior book - *maybe* - it is still more akin to an eggnog or horchata than anything truly spicy. And with very few exceptions, almost always between a married couple anyway. Gilbert clearly knows her fans and target audience well, and trust me, you'll see worse on even broadcast television these days. Which, yes, I know, isn't saying much for some... and for others will mean that there isn't nearly enough. But Gilbert works these scenes very well indeed to great effect for her purposes, and really, that's what *any* scene in a book like this should strive for.
Overall truly a fun overall tale, one that perhaps touches a bit close as I deal with some similar issues as raised here in my own real life. As in, my wife left for pre-op for a major surgery related to some issues that play heavily into one of the storylines of this very book as I was finishing it. By the time this tale is officially published, my wife will have had the surgery in question and... let's just say I know well the strain of the characters involved in this situation. In some ways, my own is a touch worse, in others, theirs is. Quite similar and all too real, regardless. And one that unfortunately far too many people will have a similar experience with.
But truly, read this book for the excellent family drama... and be ready for even more, because this series is still in its early phases.
Very much recommended.
Fans of family dramas featuring elite families of some form - think a less soapy Dynasty or a more rural Blue Bloods or similar - are going to love this new series and this tale in particular, as there are some dynamics that play out in both very fun and very "AW SNAP, IT DONE HAPPENED NOW!" manners.
While this is perhaps a touch spicier than the prior book - *maybe* - it is still more akin to an eggnog or horchata than anything truly spicy. And with very few exceptions, almost always between a married couple anyway. Gilbert clearly knows her fans and target audience well, and trust me, you'll see worse on even broadcast television these days. Which, yes, I know, isn't saying much for some... and for others will mean that there isn't nearly enough. But Gilbert works these scenes very well indeed to great effect for her purposes, and really, that's what *any* scene in a book like this should strive for.
Overall truly a fun overall tale, one that perhaps touches a bit close as I deal with some similar issues as raised here in my own real life. As in, my wife left for pre-op for a major surgery related to some issues that play heavily into one of the storylines of this very book as I was finishing it. By the time this tale is officially published, my wife will have had the surgery in question and... let's just say I know well the strain of the characters involved in this situation. In some ways, my own is a touch worse, in others, theirs is. Quite similar and all too real, regardless. And one that unfortunately far too many people will have a similar experience with.
But truly, read this book for the excellent family drama... and be ready for even more, because this series is still in its early phases.
Very much recommended.
May 2, 2026
Silverleaf’s story of the Haverly family continues with all the plot twists and protagonists’ interactions during the lead-up to the famous Kentucky Derby.
Three threads run through the story: the primary focus, of course, on the Derby, followed closely by Henry’s health, and, finally, Beau’s newest (almost covert) romance.
Revie remains the central figure in the family, controlling activities and outcomes with an iron fist (sometimes) in a velvet glove 😊, with Vivian following closer in her footsteps than her own daughters! Ms Gilbert skilfully weaves the narrative to include each member of the family.
Readers are pulled into the irresistible excitement surrounding spectators at the track and the overwhelming tension during each race; however, instead of being only a horse-racing book, with terminology that may be unfamiliar to those outside the sport, a more human aspect shaped by the family’s personal crisis, especially affecting Clayton and Vivian, and which demonstrates the close unity the siblings share, has been included.
I received a free advance copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Three threads run through the story: the primary focus, of course, on the Derby, followed closely by Henry’s health, and, finally, Beau’s newest (almost covert) romance.
Revie remains the central figure in the family, controlling activities and outcomes with an iron fist (sometimes) in a velvet glove 😊, with Vivian following closer in her footsteps than her own daughters! Ms Gilbert skilfully weaves the narrative to include each member of the family.
Readers are pulled into the irresistible excitement surrounding spectators at the track and the overwhelming tension during each race; however, instead of being only a horse-racing book, with terminology that may be unfamiliar to those outside the sport, a more human aspect shaped by the family’s personal crisis, especially affecting Clayton and Vivian, and which demonstrates the close unity the siblings share, has been included.
I received a free advance copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Already we have the second book in this series and what a book! Lots of family dynamics, plenty of stress leading up to the Derby and some calculating turns. Ms Gilbert does a phenomenal job of describing the settings and characters in the book and there is never any doubt about what things look like or what’s happening. I appreciate the fact there’s clearly sexual situations but it’s subtle and we don’t get a “play by play”. This book has lots of tension and is tear jerking in at least one place. This can be a stand alone read but I’d suggest reading the first book in the series to get more insight into the family and their horse racing business. I received a copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Second Chances is book #2 in the horse racing Haverly family series from Silverleaf,KY. If you’re a fan of family dynamics,then this is the book for you! The family is shocked to lose 2 horse races back to back to rival Memphis Santopolo (she & patriarch Graham used to be involved,before he met Revie). Shortly before the Derby,Revie has an impromptu meeting with Memphis & gives her an ultimatum….this meeting reminded me of Michelle Obama’s line….”When they go low,we go high”. I can’t wait for book #3….I’m curious how this storyline is going to work out ,especially when it becomes known how Beau’s new lady friend Felicia is connected to Memphis! Great job Kellie Coates Gilbert This book entertained me from front to back 💞
April 30, 2026
SECOND CHANCES by Kellie Coats Gilbert
Release date April 30, 2026
This is book 2, in the Kentucky Silverleaf series.
The series centers around the Haverly’s family. They are into thoroughbred racing and they are a very prestigious, family!
Everything changes when an ex of Grahms ( the head of the Haverly’s) is back in town! Revie (Grahams wife) it’s out to put her in her place! They’re getting ready for Derby week and they don’t need the chaos that Memphis Santopolo is causing. And then we have her daughter Felicia, who is putting her claws into one of the. Haverly’s boys. Does Beau know who she really is?
I can’t wait for book 3 to find out!!
Well done Kellie 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Release date April 30, 2026
This is book 2, in the Kentucky Silverleaf series.
The series centers around the Haverly’s family. They are into thoroughbred racing and they are a very prestigious, family!
Everything changes when an ex of Grahms ( the head of the Haverly’s) is back in town! Revie (Grahams wife) it’s out to put her in her place! They’re getting ready for Derby week and they don’t need the chaos that Memphis Santopolo is causing. And then we have her daughter Felicia, who is putting her claws into one of the. Haverly’s boys. Does Beau know who she really is?
I can’t wait for book 3 to find out!!
Well done Kellie 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
May 1, 2026
Second Chances did not disappoint! The Haverly family has certainly been busy. With the Kentucky Derby coming up quickly, they manage the challenges thrown their way. Clayton and Vivien manage the health issue with Henry, Beau meets someone he feels a strong connection to, but will her family connection make Revie unhappy. Mel is finding her place in the family, and the kids are doing well. Breck and Caroline are These are exciting times and I can't wait for Book 3. I received an advanced reader copy of this book via Book Funnel, and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Haverly family is weeks away from the prestigious Derby and there are lots of pre race festivities. All the female members of the family are looking for the fanciest of hats with accessories and clothing to match! Everything is on track until it is upended by a well known someone. But that someone will meet her match and things will change. This book gives the reader a chance to experience all the glamour and glitz of race day without having to travel to Lexington.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the Author, Kellie Coates Gilbert for not making her readers wait too long for Book 2 in her wonderful Silverleaf Series!
Like in the first book there is a lot family drama, in particular the health of a child and an end of a marriage. Then there is the possibility of the Haverly’s run for the roses in the Kentucky Derby is in jeopardy.
A great series and I can’t wait to read more about this engaging family with some everyday problems that may affect any one of us.
Like in the first book there is a lot family drama, in particular the health of a child and an end of a marriage. Then there is the possibility of the Haverly’s run for the roses in the Kentucky Derby is in jeopardy.
A great series and I can’t wait to read more about this engaging family with some everyday problems that may affect any one of us.
April 30, 2026
Book 2 has a slightly slower pace but the tension is heightened. Clayton and Vivian face an uphill battle for Henry.
Part of the book focuses on Beau and the snake pit he’s stepped into.
I didn’t have high regard for Felicia who is spoiled and never worked for anything.
I take my hat off to Revie. Ice Queen battled Malevolent Memphis and came out the victor!
Derby scenes leapt off the page!!
Thanks Kellie Coates Gilbert for the advance copy.
Part of the book focuses on Beau and the snake pit he’s stepped into.
I didn’t have high regard for Felicia who is spoiled and never worked for anything.
I take my hat off to Revie. Ice Queen battled Malevolent Memphis and came out the victor!
Derby scenes leapt off the page!!
Thanks Kellie Coates Gilbert for the advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The second book in a grand sweeping family saga set in the rolling fields of Kentucky and on the racetrack at Churchill Downs. Follow this powerful family through triumphs and trials. The intricacies of family life are just as complicated in this elite family as in any normal family. What exciting things will be happening in the next book in this series? Let’s find out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The second book in the Kentucky Silverleaf series was a great follow on to our introduction to the Haverly’s. It’s Derby season and we get a sneak peak at what that means. Things don’t necessarily go as expected this season and there are some challenges the family will endure. I highly recommend for the drama and some edge of your seat horse racing action.
Publication date: 4/30/2026
Publication date: 4/30/2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book two of the Kentucky Silverleaf series continues the story of the prestigious Harvey family and their Thoroughbred farm.
The Kentucky Derby is approaching and you can feel the excitement and stress as the family prepares.
With Memphis Santopolo back chaos and challenges are ahead.
A great way to be at the Derby and seeing the glamour without leaving your home.
I really am enjoying the family dynamics.
Looking forward to book 3.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.
The Kentucky Derby is approaching and you can feel the excitement and stress as the family prepares.
With Memphis Santopolo back chaos and challenges are ahead.
A great way to be at the Derby and seeing the glamour without leaving your home.
I really am enjoying the family dynamics.
Looking forward to book 3.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.
April 30, 2026
I read this in less than 24 hours.
It is a great family saga in Kentucky. Lots of family drama and horse business getting ready for the Kentucky derby. If you liked her other series you will like this one.
At times it reminds me of the Maui series and other times the Teton Mountain series.
It is a great family saga in Kentucky. Lots of family drama and horse business getting ready for the Kentucky derby. If you liked her other series you will like this one.
At times it reminds me of the Maui series and other times the Teton Mountain series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is just as good as the first one in the series. I can't wait for the next book; there are several situations I want to know how they play out.
May 2, 2026
What a great read! It ended before I was ready! I look forward, with great anticipation, to reading more about the Haverly family! So many unanswered questions! Thank you, Kellie Coates Gilbert!
May 7, 2026
At last!
Been waiting forever for this new series ,Kelli, and you have not disappointed me!!!! I love everything about this book. Counting the days until book releases..
Been waiting forever for this new series ,Kelli, and you have not disappointed me!!!! I love everything about this book. Counting the days until book releases..
May 8, 2026
**Review of Advance Copy received from Author**
In Kentucky Silverleaf Series Book 2, Second Chances, the story of the Haverly family continues as they work toward their goal: a successful Kentucky Derby run. Mixed in with the challenges of preparing for the Derby are family differences and difficulties, but the Haverly's circle the wagons and do what they must to support their own and stay on track for their goals.
I was as invested in this book as I was in the first one. The characters are relatable, and the family dynamics add to the depth of the story. I can't wait to read more!
In Kentucky Silverleaf Series Book 2, Second Chances, the story of the Haverly family continues as they work toward their goal: a successful Kentucky Derby run. Mixed in with the challenges of preparing for the Derby are family differences and difficulties, but the Haverly's circle the wagons and do what they must to support their own and stay on track for their goals.
I was as invested in this book as I was in the first one. The characters are relatable, and the family dynamics add to the depth of the story. I can't wait to read more!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews