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Published by the Penguin Group. First published 2007. Hardback, 432 pages.
I picked up ‘Second Chance‘ in a charity shop several months ago, having never heard of the author before. There was a deal, something like 5 books for £1. I had found 4 other books I wanted and picked up this one as a wildcard. It had an attractive cover and the plot summary sounded interesting.
Did I enjoy Second Chance?
The gamble paid off because I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I won’t give away the plot, but it is based around a group of friends who have been reunited through unfortunate circumstances, after not having seen each other for many years. Each of the main characters is going through their own difficulties in life. Throughout the book, the focus switches from one character’s story to another, although their stories all become interlinked now that they are back in contact with each other. There are flashbacks to earlier experiences in their lives, so you gradually get to know each of the characters and their backstories. At first, it seemed like there were a lot of characters and I found it hard to remember who’s who. But I soon got to know them.
I found all the characters really likeable. At times, I found myself relating to them and getting emotional about what they were going through. I think their stories are all very realistic and relatable, as similar things could easily happen in real life. Most readers will be able to relate to at least one of the characters.
The way the book switched between the different plotlines made it exciting, and it was sometimes hard to put it down. I wanted to keep reading to see what happens next, especially if a chapter was left on a cliffhanger and the next chapter started on a different plotline. I found myself guessing what was going to happen next. Some of my guesses were right and some were wrong!
The physical book is a hardback and is quite large and thick, but the font is fairly large, so I got through it quite quickly.
Would I recommend this book?
If you enjoy reading ‘chick-lit’ then you will love this book. It is slightly more serious than the average chick-lit novel, but it still has humorous moments, and it is easy to read. I thought the plot progressed at a good pace – it never felt slow or boring. It got straight to the point without too much unnecessary description, and any description was relevant and interesting. In my opinion, Jane Green has a very good writing style.
I am glad I have discovered Jane Green as an author, and I will definitely lookout for more books by her. I would give this book a 4 out of 5. This is only because I am very sparing with my 5s. I save them for books that have a huge effect on me, such as non-fiction books that make a big difference in my life, or fiction books that truly move me on a deep level. But for a lighter read, Second Chance is one of my favourite fiction books that I have read lately. I would definitely recommend it.
I would give this book 4 out of 5!
