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.
This review of Second Chances by Kellie Coates Gilbert was originally written on April 22, 2026.