Last Updated on November 15, 2023 by Louisa
Losing faith in love and needing some inspiration to remind you that love will come back to you once again?
I hear you!
Sometimes love is complicated and you got to give it a second chance.
In these second chance romance books, our heroines and heroes have all lost faith in love after losing someone they cherished, but through the power of storytelling, they have all found a way to give love another go.
Whether you’re looking for a cheating husband second chance romance novel or a story that speaks of love after loss, these are the best second chance romance novels of all time.
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What To Expect From Second Chance Romance Books?
Second chance romance books are all about two people who get a second chance at love.
These books are often characterized by a pair of former lovers who have reunited after a long period of time, and who must navigate the complexities of their past relationship in order to find happiness again.
However, you can also find stories about people who have been single for a long time after being badly hurt in a relationship before, who meet someone special who can tear down their emotional walls and restore their faith in love.
Expect to find themes of forgiveness, redemption, and finding closure in these books.
These novels are usually more focused on the relationship-building than sizzling scenes. You can expect the relationship to grow slowly and the plotline to be packed full of angst romance scenes.
They are known for their deeply emotional and resonant storytelling, exploring the nature of relationships and the mysteries of the human heart.
Standalone Second Chance Romance Books
If one book is all you need, then you’re going to love these standalone second chance romance novels.
1. Love and Other Words – Christina Lauren
To begin my list is a story about a woman who is about to get married, but finds her heart conflicted when she bumps into an old flame.
Love and Other Words follows Macy Sorensen who is a hardworking pediatric resident whose about to marry a rich, older man.
Macy’s life changes when fate brings her long-lost unrequited love back in her life.
Elliot Petropoulos was Macy’s best friend and her first love. During the weekend trips to San Francisco with her dad, Macy formed an unbreakable bond with the geeky boy from across the street.
Elliot was there for her in a way that no other friend could ever be, but when he finally convinced Macy to open her heart, he ended up breaking it too.
This second chance romance novel explores whether Macy and Elliot can put the past behind them a decade later. But what about Macy’s fiancé?
What sets this friends-to-lovers novel apart is its emotional depth and heart-warming story.
Alternating between past and present, it uncovers the bittersweet journey of two teenage friends who share their love for books and their favorite words.
Readers would be hooked from the first chapter and would not be able to put this book down.
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2. Paradise – Judith McNaught
If you want to read about two lovers who fell in love, but the pressure of work drew them apart, then Paradise by Judith McNaught is a worthy second chance slow burn romance book to your reading list.
Matthew Farrell, a ruthless corporate raider, is poised to move in on the department store empire owned by the renowned Bancroft family.
The takeover of Meredith Bancroft’s company by Matt Lauer attracted a great deal of media attention, overshadowing the electric chemistry between the two.
Their brief, passionate marriage quickly burned out with thrilling sensuality but ended in betrayal.
Now, locked in a battle that should be all business, dangerous temptations and bittersweet memories are stirring their hearts.
Will they risk everything for a second chance at passion?
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3. Ghosted – J.M. Darhower
Want to read a second chance romance story about two lovers featuring a protagonist who was once too young to settle down with the mother of his child, but is now ready? Then check out Ghosted by J. M. Darhower.
Jonathan is a young actor is known for his troubled history with addiction and scandals, which has made it difficult for him to maintain a healthy balance in his life.
He is currently starring in the latest superhero franchise, but the constant attention from the paparazzi makes it difficult for him to live a normal life.
As a single mother and assistant manager at a grocery store, Kennedy experiences monotony on a daily basis.
Her job consists of going to work and seeing tabloid covers of famous bad-boy celebrities.
In the past, her life was much different as she lived with her husband and daughter.
Kennedy Garfield and Jonathan Cunningham met in high school and quickly bonded over their shared love of comic books.
They fell in love and decided to run away together to follow their dreams, but Kennedy soon realized that Jonathan was tragically flawed.
Many years later, Jonathan only has one connection to the woman who gave up everything for him and their daughter – a daughter he hasn’t yet met.
Now, he’s determined to make amends with her and hopefully repair their relationship.
This is not just about requiting love, but about growing as a person and finding out who you truly are. It’s about self-discovery and coming of age.
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4. Emergency: Wife Lost and Found – Carol Marinelli
‘Give love a chance,’ they say, and that is what I wish for Lorna and James in Emergency by Carol Marinelli.
Ten years after a whirlwind romance and a divorce, Lorna encounters her ex-husband, Dr. James, in the ER after an accident.
It takes them down memory lane where James had asked her to terminate her pregnancy since it was ectopic, and in disappointment, she had cut him off completely.
James brings her home as she recovers from her injuries.
Will she still hold a grudge against him or pick up from where they left off and give their love a second chance?
This second chance doctor romance novel covers a very difficult subject, but it is also heartwarming and will keep you engrossed till the very end.
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5. Wicked Beautiful – J.T. Geissinger
Want to read about a successful female lead who spent her whole life focused on her career and is now ready for love? Then Wicked Beautiful is the book for you.
Victoria Price, best-selling author, and life coach has it all: a successful career, fabulous friends, and a fantastic penthouse in Manhattan.
What she doesn’t have is a husband.
Fifteen years ago, her high school flame broke her heart so badly that she swore she’d never love again.
Parker Maxwell is a drop-dead gorgeous restauranteur and infamous playboy who strictly has rules for the women he dates.
He never asks any questions about his past, doesn’t expect anything from them in the future, and doesn’t want them to spend the night at his place.
When he meets Victoria, everything changes. He’s willing to break the rules to satisfy his desires for her.
Only he doesn’t know that Victoria Price was the mousy Isabel Diaz, a girl he deflowered and dumped many years ago.
Victoria has the perfect opportunity to get revenge on Parker, but when she discovers more about him than just his infuriating personality, she realizes that taking revenge would be a mistake.
She decides to take a chance on love instead and gives him another chance.
A must-read for anyone who loves a layered and powerful romance that explores the depths of emotion.
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6. Forbidden to Love – Siobhan Davis
Love dark mafia romance books? Then you’re going to swoon over this tantalizing mafia book, Forbidden to Love by Siobhan Davis.
Natalia Mazzone has grown up knowing that she is promised to a made man in the mafia. She doesn’t want this life, but it is her duty and she would never dishonor her beloved father.
She is promised to a man who is a monster. There is nothing but torture and pain awaiting her in this relationship.
When she finds happiness, she grasps it cautiously—in the warm embrace of Leonardo Messina.
Leo is her brother’s best friend and a soldier for the Mazzone family. He has strong ambition and resolves that won’t allow them to give in to temptation, so Natalia must love him from afar.
Until one night changes everything, and her heart has been opened. Leo risked everything for Natalia and has no regrets. He saved her from a miserable life.
Years later and his feelings are the same, but he keeps his distance, focusing on his role as underboss to Bennett Mazzone.
Until one day, something happens that puts her on his path again.
Overall, a deeply satisfying and captivating brother’s best friend romance book about second chances that leaves readers feeling moved, inspired, and hopeful for what comes next.
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7. Return To Us – Corinne Michaels
Return To Us is a captivating story of second chances where readers will follow along as Jessica attempts to convince Grayson to put his trust in their relationship once again.
Jessica Walker and Grayson Parkerson shared a deep love when they were eighteen, but she left Willow Creek Valley for good.
Fourteen years later, after getting into an accident, she returns to the valley to regain her health.
During her time back home, Jessica reunites with Grayson who is now living as a single dad.
They start working together at The Park Inn and discover that their feelings for each other have not faded with time.
She has fallen back in love with him yet he guards his heart from potential hurt.
Will this couple get the opportunity to rewrite their own love story?
This second chance single parent romance book offers readers a chance to relive their own memories of love, heartbreak, and all the complexities in between.
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Cheating Husband Second Chance Romance Books
If you are wondering if love can come after a cheating husband, then you’re going to love these cheating husband second chance romance books.
8. All Grown Up – Vi Keeland
Vi Keeland’s romance novel about age differences, All Grown Up, is a beautiful story about two people finding love in unexpected places.
The protagonist, Valentina, finds herself divorced from her high school sweetheart after he cheats on her with a younger woman.
To cope with this newfound singlehood, she joins a dating site and comes across Ford Donovan — eighteen years her junior.
Ford Donovan is sweet, charming, and wise beyond his young age. He is undeniably attractive and wealthy but it is his unbothered attitude toward their age difference that draws Valentina in.
Deeply conflicted between her divorce and the budding feelings for Ford, readers will watch as Valentina struggles to make sense of it all and hopefully find happiness with Ford.
Typically features intimate narratives that delve deep into the characters’ memories and feelings, this is a story that highlights how complicated love can be.
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9. Storm – Serena Akeroyd
Storm is a dark mafia romance book about a man, Storm, who betrays the love of his life and wants to make amends.
He wants to be the father of his kids again and earn his woman’s love back.
This is less about the mafia aspect and more about two lovers willing to accept the flaws they both have and the responsibility they have in a relationship.
It’s about finding love again in the darkest of times.
Storm reveals the complexities and nuances of human relationships and takes readers on a rollercoaster of emotions.
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10. All Your Perfects – Colleen Hoover
Colleen Hoover is one of the most popular romance author’s of this age and so I had to include one of my favorite books by her on this list – All Your Perfects.
The memories, mistakes, and secrets that have caused tension in Quinn and Graham’s relationship are now tearing them apart.
The one thing that could save them might also be the very thing that pushes their marriage over the edge.
This is a novel about a couple who are struggling to keep their future together because of promises they made in the past.
It is an emotional page-turner that asks whether love can survive when people are not perfect.
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11. The Ultimate Betrayal – Michelle Reid
Another story about a married couple finding their way back together again is The Ultimate Betrayal by Michelle Reid.
Rachel and Daniel have three adorable kids and a seemingly strong marriage – or so Rachel thought.
When she discovers that Daniel has been having an affair, she has to face the bitter truth that their marriage was never as strong as she thought, and they had been growing apart without her realizing it.
Rachel desperately wants to save her marriage, but she has to know if it’s too late.
Can she give Daniel a second chance after his ultimate betrayal? Does he want a second chance, or has he found love elsewhere?
This is a rollercoaster of an emotional second chance romance book that is all too relatable. It shows that love is complicated and that love can be repaired with a little hard work.
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12. Secrets of Paris – Luanne Rice
If there was ever a place where love can be requited, it’s Paris. Looking for a romance book set in France? Then Secrets of Paris might be right up your street.
Lydie McBride has always been open to life and enjoyed every moment. But when her husband cheats on her, she is shattered.
Her husband, Michael, watches the passion disappear from Lydie’s eyes and hopes that going to Paris will help them recapture the love they once had.
Although Michael is initially drawn to the allure of a Frenchwoman he meets through work, Lydia also finds friendship and new life with two dramatically different women.
If she can find Michael again, maybe they can share that life together after all.
Heartwarming and emotional, this book can take on a variety of tones from bittersweet to hopeful.
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13. Cuffed By You – Nikki Mays
Want something a little more steamy? Then consider reading Cuffed By You by Nikki Mays.
After Kayla’s husband cheats on her, she tries to drown him. When she’s arrested by the world’s hottest cop, she realizes she’s alone.
Now she has to raise four kids alone, and her now ex-husband is being a complete nuisance.
Kayla just wants to stay away from men and concentrate on her family, but the hot, Viking-looking police officer who arrested her seems to be popping up everywhere.
It would be easy to ignore if he didn’t flirt with her.
Marc like variety and for some reason, he can’t get Kayla out of his mind. He likes a woman who’s a little crazy and Kayla is just right.
It’s like fate is trying to push them together. He has one plan; make Kayla his.
This steamy second chance romance book tackles issues of forgiveness, redemption, and starting anew.
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Second Chance Romance Series
Sometimes one book just isn’t enough! If you’re looking for a new series to get hooked on, then you’re going to love these second-chance romance series.
14. It Ends With Us – Colleen Hoover
It Ends With Us is a love triangle second chance romance book that covers themes of jealousy, abusive relationships, and coming-of-age elements.
It talks about what is acceptable in love, what is worth sacrificing, and what can’t be compromised on.
The story begins when Lily has just moved to Boston after finishing college and is ready to embark on new adventures.
She’s used to working hard, and starting her own business was not going to be easy, but she knows that.
When she meets Ryle, everything gets a little bit harder.
Ryle Kincaid is a neurosurgeon whose too good to be true; assertive, intelligent and maybe even a little arrogant. Even though he has a soft spot for Lily, he doesn’t want to settle down. Lily is his only exception.
As their new relationship flourishes, Lily can’t help but question how Ryle came to be this way. She begins to compare him to her first love, Atlas Corrigan.
Then suddenly, Atlas comes on the scene, and everything Lily and Ryle have built is about to come crumbling down.
If you think this sounds like an exciting read, then you might like these other similar books to It Ends With Us.
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Related Reading: It Ends With Us Book Review.
15. Eleanor & Grey (Chances Series) – Brittainy C. Cherry
When Greyson and Eleanor met as children, they fell deeply in love. But when Greyson broke Eleanor’s heart, she was forced to say goodbye, although she always longed to be reunited.
Years later, Eleanor becomes the nanny for Greyson’s children, without realizing who their father is.
Greyson is no longer the kind and open boy that Eleanor remembers, and is instead closed off and bitter.
Eleanor can sense his pain and loneliness beneath his tough exterior.
Despite their agreement to keep their interactions strictly professional, Eleanor cannot resist the pull of their shared history.
She longs to discover what went wrong all those years ago and see the happy, carefree boy she fell in love with once again.
This second chance romance novel is a sweet and captivating read that will tug at your heartstrings. It explores themes like forgiveness, redemption, and the power of true love.
Although Greyson and Eleanor face many obstacles, their journey is ultimately inspiring and hopeful.
This nanny romance novel is a must-add for anyone who loves a heartwarming and beautiful love story.
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16. Say You’ll Stay – Corinne Michaels
Another story of unrequited love is Say You’ll Stay by Corinne Michaels, which will have you hooked on every page.
All he had to do was stay, but instead, he left. When Presley’s ex left seventeen years ago, she moved on. She got married, had kids, and got everything she ever wanted.
Until her husband betrayed her and left him with no money and two boys to look after.
She decides to return to Tennessee, where she bumps into her ex from seventeen years ago.
It appears that fate is pushing them together again, but Presley had her heart broken before. Will she give love another chance?
As you can expect from a book that follows the lives of two former lovers who encounter each other again after many years, this book is packed with emotion and tender scenes.
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17. The Bromance Book Club – Lyssa Kay Adams
Looking for a sports romance about giving love a second chance? Then The Bromance Book Club is a series to get stuck into!
Gavin Scott, a professional baseball player, finds himself in deep trouble in his marriage when he discovers that his wife has been faking it in the bedroom.
Angrily, he lets out his frustration at the revelation and this serves as the final straw for Thea who requests a divorce.
Devastated and desperate to save their marriage, Gavin turns towards an unlikely source – a secret romance book club made up of Nashville’s top alphas.
With their novel of choice and helpful advice, the guys coach Gavin on what actions and words will help him win back his wife’s trust.
He must find his inner hero to express genuine remorse and reclaim her affection.
This second-chance sports romance book is an immersive tale that follows the journey of one man trying to save his marriage with unique methods never seen before!
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18. Getting Schooled – Emma Chase
Another story about two high-school sweethearts finding love again is Getting Schooled by Emma Chase.
Garrett Daniels has this whole life planned out. He’s the cocky high school quarterback star who turns football coach and the “fun” teacher in his hometown.
He’s got great friends, a nice house, and a dog.
What more could he want?
In comes Callie Carpenter, his high-school sweetheart. She’s had a pretty good life after high school, but on the other side of the country.
Now she’s back home to help her parents and to substitute at her old high school.
When Garrett offers her friendly teacher advice, she sees why she fell for him in the first place. But so much time has passed.
Will they become good friends or will they give their high school love a second chance?
A must-read for anyone who loves a layered and powerful romance that explores the depths of emotion.
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19. Forever My Girl – Heidi McLaughlin
Want to read a book about a boy who made the wrong decision many years ago, and is now on a path to correct his mistake? Then you won’t find a more endearing story than Forever My Girl by Heidi McLaighlin.
When Liam is presented with the opportunity to be a rock star, he takes it, leaving his high-school sweetheart and love of his life, Josie, behind.
Ten years later, he’s going home, hoping to find her and tell her that she’s still his forever girl.
This is a sweet rock star romance book with an emotional second-chance love story.
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20. A Lie for a Lie – Helena Hunting
A Lie for a Lie offers a unique and endearing romance between two unlikely characters.
Rook, an NHL star, is exhausted by the life he leads full of fame and obligations. Longing for an escape, he returns to Alaska, where he meets Lainey on the flight back home.
This unexpected encounter reignites a newfound connection between them that neither of them anticipated.
And out of this chance meeting grows a heartfelt love story that shows the power of true love and resilience in the face of distance.
With its focus on family, sports, and romance, this book is sure to bring lighthearted fun and joy to all readers looking for something special.
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Final Word on Second Chance Romance Books
So there you have it, those were my top second-chance romance books, from the steamy and fast-paced to the slow burn and angsty romance books.
Whatever you’re looking for, we’re sure you’ll find something to ignite your faith in love again on this list.
Do you think I missed anything? Let me know in the comments!
