Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop

Bonnie Bay #2

by Debbie Johnson

Single mother Jane can’t believe it when an invitation to Bonnie Bay falls from the pages of a book: the Scottish village she was supposed to run away to with her first love. Until he broke her heart, that is. But he’s far away now – and why shouldn’t she spend a summer there, daughter Beth in tow? They’ll snuggle up reading, stroll by the wild sea, and maybe even banish Beth’s teenage grumps.

But arriving in the charming village, Jane’s jaw drops when she sees a familiar pair of green eyes… it’s Rory Callaghan, her first love, and the boy who broke her heart. The problem? Rory is now very much a man. He’s taller, broader. His Irish lilt still makes her weak at the knees. And the sizzling spark between them crackles just like it used to.

Rory might be a long way from his Irish hometown, but he’s made a new home right here. The cozy bookshop is his refuge, and owner Moira his replacement family. So when Jane arrives it’s like an arrow through his heart. She’s still gorgeous, still his Jane. And the fierce look in her eye tells him she’s just as passionate as he remembers.

After promising to help Moira turn the bookshop into a community hub, and with Beth making friends, Jane can’t walk away. Soon, days at the bookshop turn into very late nights with Rory. And with them both spilling secrets, the real reason they broke up soon comes to light… but will this summer adventure turn into a second chance romance? Or will their hearts end up broken all over again?

A totally gorgeous escapist romance with a delicious sprinkling of spice, perfect for fans of Susan Mallery, Phillipa Ashley and Laurie Gilmore. Let million-copy bestselling author Debbie Johnson whisk you away to Bonnie Bay, where the bookshop is welcoming, the sea views are breathtaking, and the nights are steamy!

Genres: Romance, Contemporary

278 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 16, 2026

About the author

Debbie Johnson is an award-winning author who lives and works in Liverpool, where she divides her time between writing, caring for a small tribe of children and animals, and not doing the housework.

She writes feel-good emotional women’s fiction, and has sold more than 1,000,000 books worldwide. She is published globally in many different languages, and has had two books optioned for film and TV.

Her books include the best-selling Comfort Food Cafe series, The A-Z of Everything, Maybe One Day, The Moment I Met You, Falling for You and the Starshine Cove books.

She is also the author of supernatural crime thriller, Fear No Evil, and urban fantasies Dark Vision and Dark Touch.

source: Amazon

Reviews

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The most important stories are told by our hearts.”

Wow, what another emotional and exhilarating roller coaster read by Debbie Johnson in Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop. The premise for this series is refreshing and unique with its uplifting letters that have been placed inside books and sent out to various bookshops for the right person to find. After a special message of hope and understanding is seen, an invitation is given to come as a guest to stay at Bonnie Bay where a person’s heart can be restored and even dreams realised. Inspired by her late husband, Moira is the lady who has written these beautiful words of encouragement and placed them in the books. She hopes whoever needs special care will find one and take up her genuine offer. So far, this mission has brought the right people to their town for those who have come, need restoration, love and a second chance. As they heal, they offer up their talents to Moira and quickly become part of the community. They basically give back even more than they take. In this case, our leading characters get a second chance at love and being with each other after many years apart.

It wasn’t long ago I read the first book of the Bonnie Bay series and absolutely loved it and now I have read of a mother and daughter who find their way to this special place after finding one of Moira's moving notes. They come to the bookshop at the end of the world, now renamed Hopeful Hearts which is a bit more positive sounding than the original name.

When the publisher sent me an invitation to read and review the second book, I quickly accepted. I adore everything about it—especially its Romeo and Juliet theme of two star crossed lovers pulled apart by their families. This modern day version is brilliant, beautiful and bingeable! Once I started reading I found it hard to stop. I was consumed by this novel’s charm and bursting with emotion for Jane and Rory, now my favourite romantic couple in contemporary fiction!

The setting of Bonnie Bay Scotland, once again takes centre stage with its breathtaking beauty. It is so easy to see why Jane is inspired by the landscape to start up her art passion again. And Jane, well, she is a very wounded individual deeply hurt by a past love. Now in her forties, as a single mother of a moody teenage daughter name Beth—she has a secure work position, that is high paying, predictable and very boring. Life for Jane is quite dull (as her daughter keeps suggesting)—a far cry from her wild and creative younger self. But after finding the enchanting invitation, she is challenged by her daughter to take up the offer to visit Bonnie Bay. Jane, though, keeps her shock hidden from Beth for this location has a special significance. It is where she was supposed to have run away to with her Romeo. But the golden dream never happened. Only her heart shattered into a million pieces and never recovered. It damaged her deeply.

But to boost her relationship with Beth, she ventures off to Bonnie Bay. When she lands there they cannot believe how beautiful and peaceful it is. Beth makes a friend immediately and Jane meets Moira and gets to see what a warm and welcoming person she is, supported by a caring community of souls.

And what became of her Romeo? He has lived in a few different places but now is in Bonnie Bay! Rory Callaghan also has nursed a long term broken heart but carried on best he could, though never married. When he sees the love of his past life standing in the same space, he cannot believe she is there..

These two have tried for many years to recover from their broken hearts. They blamed each other for abandonment at the moment they were supposed to run away together. But there were other forces at work, which they did not know about and once they do, we watch these two navigate through a minefield of emotions. And what will happen with them after that? You have to get this book and read it! But be prepared to keep a hand full of tissues for this is a beautiful second chance story that will wrap around your heart, squeeze it and never let go. I highly recommend Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop. 5 happy Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for the ARC.

[VickydpBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book of the Bonnie Bay Series.

Set in the idyllic Scottish village of Bonnie Bay, the novel transports readers to a cozy seaside bookshop where kindness, friendship, and new beginnings are always on the shelves. Kate’s journey from feeling stuck in a life she no longer loves to discovering a place where she truly belongs is uplifting and relatable. Her character grows beautifully as she learns to let go of the past and embrace unexpected opportunities.

The bookshop itself is every book lover’s dream, complete with shelves of stories, fairy lights, welcoming corners, and the wonderful Moira, whose anonymous invitations offer hope to those in need of a fresh start. She is an unforgettable character whose warmth and generosity are at the heart of the story.

The romance between Kate and Brody is a delightful slow burn. Brody may appear gruff at first, but beneath the tough exterior is a caring and dependable man. Their chemistry develops naturally as they work together to breathe new life into the struggling bookshop, creating plenty of sweet, humorous, and emotional moments along the way.

The Scottish coastal setting is beautifully described, making it easy to imagine the sea breeze, the cries of the seagulls, and the welcoming atmosphere of Bonnie Bay. It’s the kind of place readers will wish they could visit.

Full of lovable characters, community spirit, gentle humour, and hope, this is an uplifting feel-good novel that celebrates fresh starts, found family, and the magic of books. Perfect for fans of cozy romances and stories that leave you smiling long after you’ve turned the final page.

[Caroline’s Page~Turners · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jane is captivated when she holds a book in her hands, and an invitation falls from its pages. It’s an invitation to Bonnie Bay, a charming Scottish village. Jane and her daughter, Beth, decide to embrace the adventure.

Upon their arrival, Jane is astounded to encounter Rory Callaghan, her first love. Rory promises Moira that he’ll help revitalize the bookshop. Beth settles into her new home, making friends and finding joy in her surroundings. However, Jane is hesitant to leave her new life behind and worries about the emotional toll of another separation from Rory.

“Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop,” a heartwarming tale penned by Debbie Johnson, is a captivating read. I was immediately drawn into the story from the very first page. Johnson’s vivid descriptions of the picturesque Scottish village of Bonnie Bay transport readers to a world of beauty and tranquility. This enchanting tale explores themes of second chances, new beginnings, family, and friendship.

Jane and Beth are relatable characters, each facing their own challenges in life. As they navigate their journey, they come to a profound realization of their mutual dependence on one another. This escapist romance is a delightful and heartwarming read that I wholeheartedly recommend.

Grab your copy today!! https://amazn.so/SecondChancesHopeful...

[Emma Crowley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop is the second book in Debbie Johnson’s Bonnie Bay series. This has been a gorgeous series so far full of warmth, heart and lovely themes being developed of friendship, romance, community and giving back. I settled straight back into the setting and the characters remained as familiar as ever with the addition of some new faces. For those that are discovering these wonderful stories for the first time part one is a detailed prologue which gives you some background information as to the concept behind the bookshop and its owner that perform a little bit of magic and mischief to help those at a time when they desperately need a change in their lives. Moira is in her early 80’s and lives on the rugged Sottish coast in a beautiful and quaint village called Bonnie Bay. For years she ran The Edge of the World Bookshop where the door was always open and everyone from far and wide was always welcomed with open arms to the special shop filled to the brim with books. But this is more than a bookshop and a special project initiated by Moira and her husband Angus is slowly starting to come to fruition.

Moira misses Angus desperately since she lost him several years ago. She didn’t think she could continue with the bookshop as her nephew Robbie had gone to Australia and all her energy and passion has disappeared. Things changed for her in book one and the bookshop has a new incarnation thanks to Kate and Brody from book one who do feature again but are more or less on the periphery. Moira’s plan was a way of giving back to the universe. She wanted to share her home, the bookshop and the happiness that it all brings. Several years previous to when this story takes place she wrote cards with special messages and hid them in books and sent them out into the wide world. Each message was unique and encouraged people to come and stay and visit the bookshop. Advice was given and Moira is someone who can certainly write and find just the right words. So you see the concept is simple but as the story progresses it is an effective one that brings people together and in this case reunites people after trauma.

Jane and Rory are the two new characters that feature this time around and to say they have a history would be an understatement. Jane is on holiday with her daughter Beth, who can be very narky and is not happy to be away with her mother when she was supposed to be seeing her Dad in New York. Jane works for an investment company and her life is more or less work and Beth. You can tell Jane lacks passion and enthusiasm for a lot of the aspects of her life. She is lonely and often thinks about the Irish boy who broke her heart. Her marriage was a bad idea but there has always been the one who got away. He left her in agony and pain and deep down she has never really gotten over it. In a bookshop in Stratford Upon Avon, Jane picks up a book and out falls a card written by Moira. The message calls to her and she bites the bullet and takes Beth to Bonnie Bay. I thought good on her she needs a change and to get a bit of spark back in her life so just go for it.

By coming to Bonnie Bay it means Jane will potentially have to confront her past. The secrets she has kept close to her chest may surge to the surface and once they spring forth, they will not be quashed that easily. I enjoyed reading the backstory of what happened to Jane all those years ago and how Rory fits into the picture. The details of what occurred between them and led to trauma for both involved I will not go into but all I can say is their parents have a lot to answer for. The tragic tale of Romeo and Juliet features heavily throughout and comparisons are made between the star crossed lovers and Jane and Rory. I loved this aspect as it was something different from the norm and added another layer to the story. As Jane meets Moira and is drawn into her embrace and that of the bookshop family she begins to relax and Beth even changes her attitude but at the same time she has to face reality as Rory has been living in Bonnie Bay for a number of years and as with Jane he is not over what happened. Answers need to be found and feelings of hurt and anger confronted. Is there any hope for happiness is their lives? Can Moira work her magic? After all she is like a matriarch/Granny who is so astute and can see what others refuse to. To that end she is a little matchmaker and gives people the nudge they need or puts them into positions where they can’t but talk to one another. She is the glue that holds people together and without her and the bookshop people wouldn’t find the happiness and contentment they deserve.

Throughout the first half of the book it was Rory that I felt sorry for. That’s not to say Jane’s feelings regarding the events of long ago weren’t valid. Both sides had a part to play in what ensued but the way Rory was written I felt every bit of his anguish and pain that he was still affected by to this day. It’s rare if ever that I would say it was the male character that I connected with as opposed to the female but that’s what happened here and it was refreshing. Rory has that Irish charm but deep down he longs to find the one that will fill the hole in his heart. He has never recovered from the events with Jane with both blaming each other for what happened. He often thinks why did he come and live in the place that reminds him of the woman who meant so much to him but the one who ultimately shattered his heart. He had a successful career as a barrister which he ran away from as it was slowly killing him and now he is an artist specialising in metal work. I felt sympathy for Rory because his pain and heartache was radiating from the pages. So when Jane literally arrives on his doorstep thanks to Moira I could only imagine how he felt.

What sets this book apart from a lot of the usual women’s fiction where boy meets girl etc is that there is no endless messing around -will they/won’t they? The story flows and how people feel is said instead of dancing around each other, Yes, there is a bit of angst/a misunderstanding but that adds to the fun of everything. Years of emotion come rushing to the fore when they meet again and things got a bit spicy but it didn’t feel out of place in the book rather it cemented for me how much time had been lost and that the pair should have been together but circumstances beyond their control kept them apart. Loss, forgiveness and friendship all feature heavily throughout this thoroughly enjoyable book and Jane and Rory edge out for me in terms of the romance at the bookshop compared to Kate and Brody. The plot, setting and characters are all great and the wounded creatures we first meet go through transformations that are needed that bring the reader on a lovely journey. I know there will be more to come in this series and I really hope there will be a Christmas book. Meanwhile, this is a fabulous read for the summer season.

[Aisha Faisal · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Happy Stars for a Breathtaking, Heart-Squeezing Return to Bonnie Bay! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

There is something incredibly special about returning to Bonnie Bay. From the very first page, stepping back into this warm and welcoming Scottish community felt like coming home.

Many thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for sharing this ARC with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.

There is nothing quite like the magic of escaping to a cozy, charming small town in Scotland, especially when that town is Bonnie Bay. I was absolutely thrilled when Bookouture and NetGalley invited me to read an ARC of Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop by Debbie Johnson. Having adored the first book in this series, I couldn't wait to dive back in, and let me tell you, this modern-day, star-crossed lovers trope is brilliant, beautiful, and utterly bingeable!

While this is technically the second installment in the series, it easily works as a standalone. The refreshing premise revolves around uplifting letters of hope, written by the formidable and wise Moira in memory of her late husband. Tucked away in books, these invitations find their way into the hands of the very people whose hearts need restoring.

Meet the Characters:
In this book, the magic of the letters brings us two incredibly layered, mature protagonists in their 40s, a refreshing change for the contemporary romance genre that adds so much authenticity and depth to the story.

Jane: A deeply wounded single mother who has spent years working a secure but predictable and boring job. She has buried her wild, creative younger self to provide for her daughter, carrying a heart that shattered into a million pieces years ago.

Beth: Jane’s moody sixteen-year-old daughter. She’s navigating her own teenage hurdles, including dealing with an inattentive, faraway father, but she is the catalyst who pushes Jane to take a leap of faith.

Rory Callaghan: An Irish designer and artist currently living in Bonnie Bay. He was once the "Romeo" to Jane's "Juliet" during a high school play, and like Jane, he has spent the last fourteen years nursing a broken heart after a bitter, unexplained breakup.

Moira: The beloved, formidable anchor of the community and owner of the Hopeful Hearts bookshop (renamed from its previous, much bleaker title!). She brings endless joy, wisdom, and comfort to everyone she meets.

My Thoughts:

When Jane and Beth take a three-week leave to visit Bonnie Bay, Jane keeps a massive secret close to her chest: this breathtaking landscape is the exact place she and Rory were supposed to run away to years ago. Neither Jane nor Rory ever knew why the other seemingly abandoned them at their meeting point. When they suddenly find themselves sharing accommodations, the shock and conflicting emotions are instantaneous.

The breathtaking Scottish backdrop takes center stage here, beautifully inspiring Jane to revive her long-dormant passion for art. Seeing these two middle-aged characters navigate life’s challenges, personal growth, and a second chance at love felt incredibly relatable. And the yearning? Oh, the yearning! It is executed flawlessly. They have to wade through a minefield of past misunderstandings and outside forces they knew nothing about, and watching them unravel the truth is pure comfort-read perfection.

While there were a few moments where I wished the pacing had been just a little tighter, the sheer charm of the setting and the emotional depth of the characters more than made up for it. It has everything a stellar second-chance romance needs: heartache, scathing teenagers, curveballs from ex-partners, and a warm, supportive community that gives back even more than it takes.

Final Verdict:

As always, Bonnie Bay itself felt like a character. The stunning Scottish scenery, the close-knit community, the charming bookshop, and the sense of belonging woven throughout the story made me want to pack my bags and move there immediately.

This is a heartwarming story about love, healing, family, friendship, and discovering that it is never too late for a second chance. Emotional, uplifting, and utterly charming, Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop wrapped itself around my heart and refused to let go.
This is an emotional, exhilarating rollercoaster of a book that will wrap around your heart, squeeze it, and refuse to let go. Keep a handful of tissues nearby, because Jane and Rory have officially become my favorite romantic couple in contemporary fiction. I highly, highly recommend taking a trip to Hopeful Hearts!

A perfect comfort read that left me smiling long after I turned the final page.

[Joanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved my first visit to Bonnie Bay in The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop and have been eagerly awaiting this second instalment.

Single mum Jane is dragging her reluctant teen daughter Beth round some shops in Stratford-Upon-Avon while on holiday, when an invitation falls out a book with the words ‘to the right person at the right time‘ on the envelope and a heartfelt letter inside. The invitation is from Moira, owner of the Bonnie Bay Bookshop, and invites the finder to come and stay a while in Bonnie Bay, assuring them of a warm welcome. Bonnie Bay is where Jane had planned to run away to with her teenage sweetheart, Rory, years before until fate had intervened leaving them both with broken hearts. Imagine her surprise to arrive there and find the boy who had broken her heart was very much a man and that he now lived in Bonnie Bay.

It’s very appropriate that Jane was in Stratford Upon Avon when she found the invitation as there was definitely a Romeo and Juliet vibe to the narrative although, thankfully, without the tragic ending. Jane and Rory’s story very much mirrored the star-crossed lovers tale when they were younger. Had fate intervened again in a positive way to bring them together and give them a second chance at love? Well, if fate goes by the name of Moira, that’s entirely possible!

I really enjoyed following the love story between Jane and Rory and with chapters from both their points of view, we really get to know them so well. I particularly liked Jane’s journey of personal growth. From someone who lived her life always feeling a little broken after the teenage break-up, she had taken a big leap of faith going to Bonnie Bay and grew in confidence as she became involved in the local community.

Community is a big theme in the book. Bonnie Bay is a place where everyone knows everyone and the bookshop is just one of the places at the heart of the community. Moira has dreams of it becoming even more of a hub for community and Jane works hard to help her fulfill that dream. In doing so, she begins to fulfill some of her own dreams too.

I thoroughly enjoyed my second trip to Bonnie Bay and meeting up with some familiar faces again. I know that Moira hid invitations to Bonnie Bay in ten books and with three of them now found, that means there are seven more still out there. I can’t wait to find out who finds the others and what will happen when Bonnie Bay works its magic. Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop is another delightfully romantic read from Debbie Johnson.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful community, humour and heart.

Debbie Johnson has become one of those authors whose books I look forward to without hesitation, and returning to Bonnie Bay felt like catching up with old friends. Once again, she fills the pages with warmth, humour and a wonderful sense of community, creating the sort of place I'd happily visit if only it existed.
The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop remains a delightful setting, and I loved the way the local art community was woven into the story. These are the elements Debbie Johnson consistently does so well. Her characters feel like real people, the dialogue sparkles with humour, and Bonnie Bay continues to be somewhere I'd happily spend time.

Rory was easily my favourite character. He was kind, emotionally available and wonderfully refreshing as a romantic lead. I found myself rooting for him from the very beginning. Jane's journey was heartfelt, and I enjoyed watching her rebuild her life, although I occasionally wished she would trust both herself and Rory a little sooner.

My only real disappointment was that the romance relied on a familiar formula. Rather than allowing two people with an established history to simply take a chance on each other, the story repeatedly returned to fear, retreat and misunderstandings before finally arriving at the inevitable conclusion. For me, those repeated moments of running away felt unnecessary, especially because the emotional connection between Jane and Rory was already so convincing.

I also found Jane's relationship with her daughter, Beth, a little frustrating at times. Beth's emotions and behaviour felt entirely believable given everything she had experienced, but I struggled with how much Jane allowed to pass without setting any boundaries. Supporting a child through trauma and gently insisting on respectful behaviour can go hand in hand, so those moments didn't quite ring true for me.
Even so, Debbie Johnson's trademark humour, warmth and strong sense of community made this another enjoyable read. While it didn't quite recapture the magic I found in the first Bonnie Bay novel, it was still a lovely return to a world I'll happily revisit.

Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debbie Johnson’s Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop made me want to call in sick, move to Scotland, and work in a tiny bookshop by the sea. Very normal reaction. Totally fine.

Bookouture, thank you so much for the gifted book.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“The most important stories are told by our hearts.”

I started this before work, which was honestly rude of me because this is not a “just one chapter” kind of book. This is a “why do I have bills and responsibilities?” kind of book.

Jane finds an invitation tucked inside a book and ends up taking her teenage daughter, Beth, to Bonnie Bay. Cute, right? A peaceful little Scottish village, a cozy bookshop, sea air, fresh start energy. Except Jane has history there. Big history. The kind with first love, heartbreak, and one man she probably hoped would stay safely in the past.

Spoiler: he does not.

Rory Callaghan is there, and suddenly Jane’s relaxing getaway becomes an emotional ambush with an Irish accent. Their reunion is awkward, tender, frustrating, and full of all those things people don’t say for years because pride and pain are terrible roommates.

I really liked Jane. She felt tired in a way that made sense. She’s been responsible for so long that she forgot she used to be creative and brave and maybe even a little reckless. Watching Bonnie Bay bring that back out of her was one of my favorite parts.

Beth made me laugh because yes, that is a teenager. Sweet one minute, dramatic the next, judging your life choices like she pays the mortgage.

And Moira? Protect her at all costs. I want tea with her immediately.

This book is cozy, emotional, a little swoony, and full of second-chance magic without feeling too sugary. If you love bookshops, Scottish villages, found family, mature romance, old heartbreak, and characters slowly finding their way back to themselves, this is such a lovely read.

By the end, I wanted to stay in Bonnie Bay, browse the shelves, and ignore my alarm clock forever.

Would you answer a mysterious invitation hidden inside a book, or would your true-crime brain say absolutely not?

[April Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jane Matthews is divorced, mother to teenage Beth, and overworked at a demanding job that doesn't value her. She is struggling handling life, a teenage girl, an ex who is no father of the year candidate and a job she doesn't love but pays the bills. She also never has let go of her first love who was Romeo to her Juliet. They were going to run off together, but he ghosted her years ago. She has never really recovered from the hurt of that abandonment.

She comes across a book with the now famous note from Moira and Angus inviting her to the End of the Bookshop in Scottland. She and Beth decide to go. They go and they find themselves warmly welcome by the people there. Moira is excited to have them and asks her young friend Rory to put them up at his house before he even meets them. Rory is a transplanted Irishman and a metal sculptor. He is also Jane's Romeo. When they see each other for the first time there is a cauldron of emotions ready to boil over. They eventually talk, realize there were some misunderstandings of what happened and both felt like the wronged party. They don't want to tell Beth about their past so they agree to be friendly but give each other space so that Jane and Beth can have the stay they envisioned.

Both Jane and Beth are finding themselves taken into the community and are finding themselves. Jane is going to help with the paperwork for the grants so they can turn part of the bookshop into an artisan center. Jane is finding herself drawing again and standing up to her bully of a boss who texts/call her everyday of her holiday. Jane and Rory are rediscovering each other and the love they had.... till another misunderstanding. Will they be able to work it out and let their Romeo and Juliet story have a happy ending. You will need to read it and find out.

I enjoyed this story and its second chance romance, found family, wonderful supporting characters and a place you just want to go and live with all your new friends. The author writes this in a way that you really feel part of the community and the folks there are all your friends.

Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the chance to read this book and give my opinion.

[Margie Bunting · Rating 4 out of 5]

A followup to the first in a series, Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop by Debbie Johnson returns to the Scottish village of Bonnie Bay, where random individuals who unexpectedly find invitations hidden in books and addressed to "the right person at the right time" travel to the bookshop to take a break from their current lives. The first in the series covered two strangers who happened to meet each other on the way to the bookshop, and how their lives are changed, in addition to upheaval in the bookshop itself.

In the second book, a third person finds another invitation and accepts it, hoping to change her life for the better as well. Jane has been a single mom for years, starting when 16-year-old Beth was a small child. Her relationship with Beth has recently become more difficult, as her daughter is looking for more independence and simultaneously suffering from inattention from her faraway father. Jane takes a 3-week leave from her boring but demanding job, and she and Beth are immediately enchanted by the bookshop and the locals who adore the elderly owner and look forward to the annex, which will house a new gallery.

But no one--not even Beth--knows that Jane has a special connection to Bonnie Bay, though she has never visited it, and that they are sharing accommodations with an Irish designer and artist who was once Romeo to Jane's Juliet in a high school play. Jane and Rory had launched a love affair at that tender age, but something had gone very wrong that almost destroyed both of their lives. They haven't seen each other in 14 years, and their shock leads to conflicting emotions. Will the two get back together when they discover what had really caused their bitter breakup? You might guess, but of course that's the fun of the story. There are fewer plot lines in this book than in the first, but it still left me hoping there will be at least one more book in the series.

My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of the book.

[Abby Farris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating -⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Debbie Johnson for the advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own. Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop publishes July 16, 2026.

Have you ever wished there was a place you could visit whenever life felt a little too heavy? Stepping back into Bonnie Bay felt exactly like a warm hug and a deep breath in your favorite little coastal town. I enjoyed the first book in this series, but somehow this one was even better.

Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop returns readers to Bonnie Bay, where the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop continues to bring people together as friendships, romance, and second chances bloom within a community that feels impossible not to love.

If you've ever felt discarded, ordinary, or like you've lost your place in the world, I swear the cure might just be tucked inside a book that leads you to Bonnie Bay. The bookshop once again serves as the heart of the community, but this time I found myself even more invested in the romances and personal journeys than I was in the setting itself.

Moira remains one of my favorite characters. She is witty, sharp, and says exactly what everyone else is thinking. If you loved the older characters in The Thursday Murder Club or The Correspondent, I think you'll absolutely adore her.

The story is filled with humor, heart, romance, and found family. The kind of book that leaves you smiling long after you've finished. My only reason for not giving it a full five stars is that I wanted it to dig just a little deeper emotionally. Even so, that lighter touch also makes it the perfect book to slip into your beach bag or read on a sunny afternoon.

This book felt like spending a weekend in a cozy seaside town where everyone knows your name and the local bookshop always has a chair waiting for you. Perfect for readers who love heartwarming community stories, found family, charming romances, and unforgettable older characters. If you're looking for the great feel-good summer read, let this be your sign to pick it up on July 16.

[Musingsonbooksandmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided by Netgalley and this review is my honest opinion. My thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and the Author for the opportunity to review.
Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop by Debbie Johnson is book 2 in the Bonnie Bay series. This was my first time reading this author and my first time reading a book in this series and I didn’t feel that it was detrimental to my enjoyment not reading book 1. I really liked the story of Rory and Jane who got a second chance at love, family and life thanks to Moira and the good folk at the Hopeful Hearts bookshop. This was really an emotional story set in a vivid and descriptive world full of heart and community.
The world weariness of Jane really resonated as she negotiated her current life as a single mother to her beloved daughter Beth. An impromptu and sudden holiday break brings Jane and Beth to the Edge of the World bookshop in Bonnie Bay, a place of special significance and heartache to Jane. While there, they meet stalwart of the community, Moira. Jane and Moira bond over their love of books and a special postcard connection. This is just the beginning of Jane’s story as she also finds herself face to face with her first love, Rory, someone she never recovered from the loss of losing in her youth. After a stilted start they both realise that although they had been betrayed by those who were close to them, they had not betrayed each other as they both originally thought and they were able to begin a journey back to one and other. There are lots of different themes in this book, from loss to renewal to new beginnings and the story is heartfelt. The path was not straightforward, and Jane and Rory did have to fight for their ending, but they could not have been better placed to find a home and find themselves. I really liked the writing and found it evocative. I could really visualise myself there amongst friends and found family with Moira and company. I would definitely recommend this book.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.3

[Emilie · Rating 5 out of 5]

After loving the first book in the series, I knew I had to dive straight into this second installment, and it certainly did not disappoint.

When single mother Jane receives an invitation to Bonnie Bay, the exact Scottish village she once dreamed of running away to with her first love, Rory, she decides to spend a summer there with her teenage daughter, Beth, hoping for a quiet getaway. But upon arriving, she is stunned to find Rory living there. As Jane agrees to help Moira turn the bookshop into a vibrant community hub, old feelings resurface and past secrets come to light, forcing both Jane and Rory to confront whether they can truly build a second chance together.

Returning to the charming Scottish village of Bonnie Bay and the beloved Edge of the World Bookshop felt like coming home. I’ve loved Moira and Angus’s grand scheme right from the start, so following Jane and Beth was an absolute pleasure, and I was so curious to see what Moira had in store for them upon their arrival!

While the main second-chance romance follows a comforting path, the smaller, unexpected plot twists along the way added a wonderful layer of authenticity. The cosy atmosphere of the village, the wild beach walks, the bookshop's continuous evolution, and the dual perspectives of Jane and Rory all made for a truly immersive read. I particularly appreciated the realistic complexity of Jane's character and the gentle handling of life's harder realities.

It is also worth noting that although this is the second book in the series, it functions perfectly well as a standalone story. There are lovely, subtle references to Kate and Brody from book one, and it was a total delight to catch a glimpse of their ongoing journey.

Above all, this book shines through its warm sense of community and enduring friendship, it is the ultimate feel-good read. I only have one question left: when is Book 3 coming out, and who will we be following next?

[DJ Sakata · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favorite Quotes:

I hope karma exists, and I hope she’s an absolute bitch with a vengeful streak. I hope she makes all his hair drop out overnight, or gives him chronic erectile dysfunction. He was always far prouder of his hair and his penis than much else, including his own kid.

I am actually deeply private, and I hold my secrets so close that sometimes I even hide them from myself.

If I’d known I was going to bump into the man who broke my heart, I’d have been on a crash diet and possibly had plastic surgery. I know I shouldn’t care– I know it shouldn’t matter– but it seems like I’m not quite mature enough at the age of forty-four for that to be true.

I know how much he hates people who claim to be stressed. He thinks anxiety is fictional and wellness is the work of the devil.

She’s taller than Moira, whip thin, with the kind of face that could sink whole fleets, never mind ships.

Moira keeps telling me to live the rainbow, but I don’t know if I’m ready for all that colour just yet. I’m maybe edging my way towards some warm pastels…

‘Jane!’ bellows my boss. His office is across the corridor, but he likes to communicate via the medium of yelling whenever possible. I walk towards his lair. Vivian gives me a sympathetic look as I pass, and whispers: ‘I bet he has a tiny willy. He’s got to be compensating for something!’

My Review:

This series is such good fun; I revel in Debbie Johnson’s wicked sense of humor. Written in my favorite dual POV, she hits all the feels in this one with a second chance at a great first love, family dramas in all directions, a sassy teen, and even sassier octogenarians. The writing is easy to follow, amusing, insightful, and enjoyably engaging from beginning to end.

[Cyndi · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Stars

Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop completely stole my heart. I absolutely love a good second-chance romance, and this book delivered everything I hoped for and more.

Moira and Agnes create a beautiful plan to give back by sending postcards into the world, inviting those who find them to visit Bonnie Bay and the charming Hopeful Hearts Bookshop in Scotland. When Jane and her daughter discover one of the postcards, they set off on an unforgettable journey.

What Jane doesn’t expect is to come face-to-face with Rory, her high school sweetheart. Years ago, their relationship ended without answers, leaving heartbreak and unanswered questions behind. As they reconnect, they finally uncover the truth about what separated them all those years ago.

Watching Jane struggle between her responsibilities at home and the possibility of a future with Rory was emotional and heartfelt. Their reunion felt genuine, and I found myself rooting for them every step of the way.

This book was the definition of a warm hug. The small-town setting was cozy and welcoming, the character development was superb, and the storyline was beautifully crafted. Every page was filled with heart, hope, and the reminder that sometimes life gives us a second chance at the love we thought we’d lost.

A must-read for fans of second-chance romance, charming bookshops, and heartwarming small-town stories. This book wrapped itself around my heart and never let go.

📚 Second Chance Romance
🏡 Small Town Romance
💌 Lost Love Reunited
📖 Bookshop Setting
❤️ High School Sweethearts
🌿 Cozy & Heartwarming
🏴 Scotland Setting
👩‍👧 Family Relationships

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop is a warm, uplifting romance that wraps you up in its charm from the very first page. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Bonnie Bay, it’s an effortlessly escapist story about love, healing, and finding your way back to what truly matters.

Jane is an easy protagonist to root for—practical, protective, and quietly hopeful beneath her guarded exterior. Her journey back to the place that once held so much promise (and heartbreak) feels both believable and emotionally engaging. The dynamic with her daughter Beth adds a lovely layer of warmth and realism, grounding the story in family as much as romance.
Of course, the heart of the book lies in the reunion between Jane and Rory. Their chemistry is immediate, but it’s the history between them—the misunderstandings, the unresolved feelings—that gives the relationship its depth. Watching them slowly reconnect, sharing long conversations and unearthing old truths, is as comforting as it is compelling.

The bookshop setting is particularly delightful, filled with a strong sense of community and gentle charm. It becomes more than just a backdrop—it’s a place of second chances in its own right, bringing people together in quiet, meaningful ways.

Debbie Johnson’s writing is warm and inviting, striking a lovely balance between emotional depth and light, feel-good moments. Overall, this is a cosy, heartfelt romance perfect for anyone looking to get lost in a story of love rediscovered and new beginnings.

With thanks to Debbie Johnson, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Susanne Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved being back in Bonnie Bay and the Book shop at the edge of the world. Jane and Beth are trying to navigate their way with all that comes with being a single parent if a 16 year old with a dad who nails on a holiday at the last minute. I loved how Jane stepped up and tried so hard to be patient and kind to Beth, even when she was getting attitude and eye rolls. Parenting is hard and this didn’t sugar coat it. Jane only goes to Bonnie Bay because Beth gets excited about after finding one of Moria’s postcards. And then, well that’s when things get interesting.

I loved Jane’s reaction to Rory, eye communication and he totally went with it so Beth was none the wiser about their past. And then as the story unravelled and they confronted each other my heart broke for them. For both of them it was hard to trust and to let their guard down around their hearts. I enjoyed watching them do that after Beth leaves to visit her dad. Jane slowly sees her worth and finds happiness, not just with Rory, but with helping Moira with the book shop and art gallery. She gets her spark back.

Nothing runs smoothly and soon she can’t hide from the past and has to tell her secret to Rory for them to full move on and be together.

I loved the ending with the gallery opening and it bringing all members of the community together, seeing their history represented in the gallery, their story told and legacy left.

A great series and I can’t wait to see who gets a postcard next and what great things they can add to Bonnie Bay.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

So good!

This book is the second in the Hopeful Hearts/End of the World Bookshop series, and I absolutely am hoping for more. The premise is that the owners, Angus (now deceased) and Moira created postcards, inserted them into books and distributed the books far and wide. The postcards are pictures of Bonnie Bay along with an invitation for the finder to visit Bonnie Bay. Take a chance, because if the card found you, you're in need.

The finders of this card were Jane and her daughter Beth. Beth is a typical teen, made a little more difficult due to her father's recent remarriage (after divorcing her mother). She feels forgotten, tossed aside. Jane is a business woman, tied to her job with little else in her life besides her daughter. They're unexpectedly spending the summer together when they find the card. Beth wants to go, Jane has reservations based on her past, but agrees because she wants Beth to be happy.

Little does Jane know, but the past who broke her heart is currently living in Bonnie Bay, a place she and Rory once planned to run away towards. Of course this makes their time there awkward, especially after Jane and Beth move into his house. But the more time Jane spends in Bonnie Bay she begins to question her life, her job, choices made...what will she do?

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

[Karen Mace · Rating 4 out of 5]

it's been wonderful being back in the Bonnie bay series, and I'm still waiting to find my book in the wild with a letter written by Moira inviting me up to stay!

This can be read as a standalone, but it's easier to connect with if you've read the first in the series! And this time the letters of Moira hidden in books, brings new characters to the area to escape what's going on in their lives! Jane is a single mum to Beth, and dealing with Beths dad cancelling on her last minute again to spend time with his new family. Beth is going through the dreaded teenage years, so anything her mum suggests is boring, so when they discover this letter they are both intrigued - especially as the area has a connection to Jane from the past.

So when they arrive and she ends up being invited to stay at the home of a local artist, Rory, her past is right there in front of her so there's a lot of soul searching and conversations that need to be had, that weren't had when they needed to be!

it's wonderful reconnecting with the area and the characters as you get such a great sense of how much the bookshop means to all those who live nearby and those who visit. What follows is the cosiest of reads and full of wonderful moments for many characters as time proves to be a great healer! Loved it!

[JudyAnnLovesBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first Debbie Johnson read and it delivered what I needed. A warm, heartfelt escape to a place I didn't want to leave.

Bonnie Bay is the kind of Scottish village that wraps around you like a favorite sweater. The wild sea, the cozy bookshop at its heart and a community that feels lived in. Hopeful Hearts Bookshop itself becomes a character. It’s a refuge, a gathering place and the perfect backdrop for second chances. I loved how the setting wasn't just pretty scenery but truly shaped the story and the people in it.

Jane is relatable and grounded, navigating single motherhood and her own guarded heart with quiet strength. Watching her rediscover herself in Bonnie Bay and tentatively open up to the possibility of more was lovely. Rory, with his Irish lilt and green eyes, is swoon worthy but also layered; he's built a life in this village and his connection to bookshop owner Moira adds depth and warmth.

This is a sweet, character driven read with a setting that steals your heart. It's cozy, hopeful and perfect for anyone who loves bookshops, seaside villages and second chance love stories. I’m giving SECOND CHANCES AT THE HOPEFUL HEARTS BOOKSHOP the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!

[Les · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read the first book in this series, I was unsure if I would enjoy this as much.

Oh how wrong was I.

Everyone deserves a second chance and a lot of the time, life doesn’t always present the opportunities we would like it to. I was so rooting for Jane, who I felt was plodding on with her life to the tune of everyone else but herself. When she reconnects with Rory, the electric tension and energy that flowed through the pages was something else. The tenderness that Debbie Johnson showed, made me want to have an affair with Rory, despite my being happily married !!!

I read this in two sittings (only because I’d started it too late in the day). It captured my attention completely. The descriptions of Bonnie Bay were a delight to behold and made me want to visit.

I was really wanting Jane and Rory to have their happy ever after and didn’t want this to end. A fantastic read that left with a smile on my face, long after the book had been finished. I’ve thought about this book a number of times since.
Debbie Johnson does this genre of books so well.

Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC.

[theliterarywayfarer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bonnie Bay has done it again! ⛰️🌊

If the first book felt like discovering your new favourite comfort show, Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop feels like settling back into it for a second season: familiar, warm & somehow even better than you remembered!

Moira gets significantly more page time here & I was so glad for it. She is the quiet heart of this whole series & every scene with her felt like a gift. As for Jane & Rory: two people with years of history & unfinished business, thrown back together in the most Bonnie Bay way possible. 😂 The slow build of tension between them was delicious & completely earned. I just loved them so much!

And Bonnie Bay itself ~ I genuinely cannot explain what this fictional Scottish village by the sea does to me. The scenery, the community, the bookshop ~ it makes me feel like I’m living inside my favourite show. Pure escapism in the best possible sense!

A thoroughly satisfying sequel that left me wanting more from this world ~ and already impatient for book three (please let there be a book 3!)

I received a digital ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are entirely my own.

[Suraiya Srabon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed returning to Bonnie Bay. It felt like catching up with old friends, and the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop is still one of those places I wish existed in real life. Jane's story was emotional in a quiet, realistic way. She's trying to move forward while raising her daughter, but when Rory comes back into her life, all those old feelings and unanswered questions come rushing back. I liked that their relationship wasn't all instant forgiveness. It took time, honest conversations, and a lot of growth, which made their second chance feel earned.

Debbie Johnson has such an easy writing style that makes these books comforting to read. The small-town setting, the friendships, and the little everyday moments gave the story so much warmth. My only small complaint is that some parts felt a bit slow, and I wanted a little more depth in a few of the emotional scenes because they were over sooner than I expected. But overall, this was such a cozy, heartwarming read that left me smiling. If you love small-town romances with lovable characters, family moments, and a story about finding your way back to happiness, this one is definitely worth picking up.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jane and her daughter Beth discover a postcard hidden in a book. Addressed to the right person at the right time, it invites them to visit Bonnie Bay, to meet Moira, an 84-year-old bookshop owner. When they arrive in this small village of the Scottish Highlands, Jane has no idea that she is about to reunite with her first love, the man who broke her heart when she was eighteen. Together, they will have to set aside their hurt and resentment, to uncover the secrets of their past.

Moira is such a lovable character that you wish to receive a postcard from her and travel to Bonnie Bay to meet her, listen to her advice and enjoy the stunning Scottish scenery.

Jane is at the point of her life where everything feels dull and routine. Through her friendship with Moira and the wonderful community of Bonnie Bay, she rediscovers herself, regains her confidence and reconnect with her passion for drawing, which she has long since set aside.

If you enjoy cozy bookshop settings, close-knit communities, second chance romance and beautiful landscapes, you will love this story.

[Susanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story of second chances. After her daughter, Beth's, plans to visit her dad in the US get cancelled, Jane is left putting together a holiday for the two of them which Beth, in true disappointed teenager style, refuses to enjoy. While in Stratford-Upon-Avon, Jane and Beth come across one of Moira's invitations to visit The Bookshop at the Edge of the World in Bonnie Bay. Jane has a connection to Bonnie Bay and after some persuasion by Beth, off they go. Jane starts to feel alive again, but is also forced to confront something that happened more than 20 years ago. A difficult situation, a heartbreaking reason for what occurred in the past and a chance at a new future. The same wonderful characters, especially Moira, from the first book as well as a little update on how Kate and Brody are doing, and the stunning descriptions of the scenery makes for a lovely addition to this series. Very enjoyable!
Thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture, and Debbie Johnson for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Alison McIntyre · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the first book in this series but I feel like this one didn’t quite hit the mark. Don’t get me wrong, this was still great. However, I feel like there was more heart in the first one.

I'm so glad they didn't beat around the bush about what happened but my gosh the heartbreak and the devastation of what happened when they were 18.

Her self esteem took a hit when they had the breakup and I share the same self consciousness that she does. All along, I knew there was one more thing she wasn’t telling him and it finally came out.

For me, I think once they both figured out the betrayal of their parents the romance seemed off. As a reader, you could really feel the feelings but something was missing. Even the ending didn’t fix that for me but kudos to the author for the therapy representation. Everything that happened when they were 18 was HUGE.

Song: Adele - When We Were Young, Romeo and Juliet soundtrack, and my personal pick of Stephen Sanchez - Until I Found You

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of this one. I hope there will be more!

[Maja · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many thanks from me to Netgalley and of course also Bookouture for providing me this ARC!

I really wish those books would be movies so I could share them with my husband! He is a big romance fan, but this is not the genre I could get him to read. Which is a shame, because I bet he would love them....

Anyway - have I already mentioned I would love to go to Scotland one day? Because I really do. Which is why Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop is also getting some bonusn points for the setting. Not that it would need them. Once again, I did really enjoy reading from start to finish. Being a single mom like Jane surely is not easy, so, from the start, I was wishing her all the best. And I was sure she would find it in Bonnie Bay .... but then, Rory was there. And Rory, in the past, broke her heart....

Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop has really everything I want from a romance book - it is emotional, cozy, and well..... hopeful! I can recommend!

[Feli · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, Debbie Johnson, and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop is the second book in the Bonnie Bay series, but it can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone.

One of my favorite things about this series is Bonnie Bay itself. Debbie Johnson creates such a cozy, welcoming little town that feels like somewhere you'd want to spend a weekend wandering through the bookshop, chatting with the locals, and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

This story takes a little time to get going, but once it did, I found myself invested in Jane's journey and enjoyed watching old wounds heal and new beginnings take shape. It's a heartwarming story about second chances, family, friendship, and finding the courage to open your heart again.

If you're looking for a comforting small-town romance with plenty of charm, this is a cozy book to curl up with.

[Ann Lovell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is second in a series however it can easily be read as a standalone.

Returning to Bonnie Bay, we’re once again greeted by the formidable Moira. Her character is so captivating it’s hard not to wish she were a relative. She brings joy wisdom and hope to the plot.

This book revisits some familiar characters with minimal updates on their lives. Rory and Jane are the main focus. Initially unaware of each other’s existence in Bonnie Bay, their reunion quickly picks up where they left off.
This is a fantastic second chance romance. It has everything you need: heartache, scathing teenagers, little curveballs from ex-partners and romance.


It’s hard not to imagine this place and want to visit for yourself! It’s a great read thoroughly enjoyed it.

I had a advanced copy from Netgalley.

[Stephanie White · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is about redemption, about taking chances, about found family.

Truly the theme song from Cheers, everyone knows your name -and everyone gets along.

Our bookstore is "at the end of the world" in Scotland - the bookstore owner - her husband recently passed -but one of his goals was to invite others to the store and to share the beauty of the land. The owner, and her grandson write postcards, taken from the husbands photos - and place them in books - telling them to come, at the right time, at the right place.

Our FMC finds a card, while she was going through a rough time with her daughter, and goes - and there is back story to that.
I truly loved this story and even until the end the author was throwing us more surprises.