Two single parents meet when their childrent become best friends. The parents are both afraid to let themselves fall in love, and try everything possible to resist doing so. But their two children and others see it as inevitable. This story features lots of interesting characters.

Although this is the second book in the series set in Penmenna, it is a completely new story and it really isn’t necessary to have read the first book at all to enjoy this one, it can be read completely as a standalone. Some of my favourite characters from book one reappear, but the focus is on new characters and I think the author has been very clever in making sure she pleases readers returning eagerly from book one without alienating new readers.

This time the story focuses on Sylvia and Alex, two single parents dealing with the day to day issues which that situation inevitably brings whilst also trying to resist the attraction growing between them for the sake of their children, who have become best friends.

You pretty much know what to expect from this type of book looking at the cover and the blurb and there are no major surprises in that regard but it is a lovely example of a book in the genre. The characters are genuine and honest and I was totally invested in their story. Kitty writes the children and their lives particularly well I think and I really loved this aspect of the book. The secondary characters are great additions – I particularly love Marion from book one who continues to add great comedy to the book, and the new character of Uncle Tom – no one is wasted, everyone is there for a reason.

Kitty does a great job of balancing humour, romance and genuine stories of people’s lives and her writing is warm and approachable. I love the setting of the little village in Cornwall, which she uses without over-working it. All in all, another fabulous book that I would highly recommend.

Sylvie and her 4 year old son Sam are heading down to the beach as they do on a regular basis (I love the detail of how they kicked their flip flops off, that was cute). They find their usual spot taken by Alex and his adopted daughter Ellie who is 5. Naturally, this is a talking point and leads to them all meeting. The kids hit it off but will the adults too?

The summer vibe is in every pore of this book: beaches, ice creams and suntan lotion are at the ready and as I was listening to it in decidedly autunmal weather, I found myself longing for summer again, The book will appeal to anyone who is from, or has ever been to Cornwall and the scenic descriptions are very enticing. Sam is due to go to school soon and Sylvie has lots of other issues to sort out.

Will the meeting with Alex and Ellie blossom into something more?

The book is a quick, atmospheric and relaxing tale of summer fun, friendship and never giving up on what and who you want in your life. Kitty Wilson has a magical ability to transport the reader to Penmenna in the first few sentences of the book and a great attention to detail and the nuances of relationships that will keep you there. It was lovely seeing the bond between Sam and Ellie so quickly.

Thanks to Kitty Wison and Canelo for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review as well as a spot on the blog tour for this title.

4 stars. I'm glad I have now reviewed both books in The Cornish Village School series.

Sylvie and her son Sam are enjoying the summer before Sam starts his school journey. They enjoy going to the beach a lot and even have their favorite spot there. One day, when they go to beach they discover that their spot is taken. A bit later they notice that it was taken by a young girl Ellie and her dad Alex. The children start playing at the beach and have instant connection, which means the adults have to get acquainted too. Alex and Sylvie both want the best for their children and while they are good friends, more deeper feelings are growing between them.

It’s the second book in the series, but works well as a standalone book too. I really liked the family and friendship ties between the characters, the children and the romance between Sylvie and Alex. Reading about the warm beach days made me miss the summer even more. It was a heart warming book about village life, friendship, family and love.

We’re back in the little Cornish Village of Penmenna for the second book in this series.  Whilst it can be read as a standalone book, for continuity of the story it makes sense to read them in order!

In this book we are introduced to Sylvie, a single mum who is preparing her son for his first day at the Village School.  We also meet journalist Alex whose adopted daughter, Ellie is due to start school also.  I loved the characters of Sylvie and Alex (and their respective children, obviously!) and when it looked like there may be an attraction between the two I started to cross everything in the hope that love would find a way!  Of course, in the style of these books, love never runs as smoothly as it should, and whilst you can probably have a good guess at how the story will end, it was such a fun journey with these characters to get there.

As in the first book, I feel in love with the setting of the village and the descriptions of it put beautiful images in my mind throughout the book.  It was lovely to see some of the other characters from the village, particularly Rosie Winters as I did like her character in the first book!  The cover was again so enticing and obviously the year is moving on from summer into Autumn, so was an absolute perfect read for this time of year!

A word of warning though, you may need to again brush up on your Cornish dialect as there is a little bit of the local accent throughout the story!  I’ve been to Cornwall plenty of times, but can’t for the life of me remember how the locals talk (I’m not even sure if I met any locals as I’m sure none of them talk like they do in this book!). It may look, and probably sound a bit strange, but I love how it makes this series just a little bit more different than some of the others!

A fun and romantic story which ticks all the right boxes!  I can’t wait for the next visit to Penmenna!!  Would definitely recommend!

It felt lovely to return to The Cornish Village School Series and I was soon immersed back into village life. This is a relaxing read and full of the feelgood factor. I found Sylvie to be a well-drawn character and she seemed to be so relatable. I enjoyed getting the story from both Sylvie and Alex's perspectives which filled out the story and helped to explain why they reacted as they did in certain situations.

One of the most enjoyable parts of the writing is the gentle humour to be found in some of the supporting characters. Marion is good value, as before and I found Sylvie's Uncle Tom with his slightly gruff manner to add a real human touch. The two children, Sam and Ellie, are full of fun and say aloud exactly what they are seeing and hoping for which is quite endearing. Ellie's story takes you far away from the confines of Cornwall. You find yourself rooting for Sylvie and Alex and hoping that they can put down roots in the village and create the family they both seem to be yearning for.

In short: A heart-warming read about friends and friendship.

Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.

The Cornish Village School ~ Breaking the Rules was the first novel in a new series written by Kitty Wilson, and you can read our review here.

This series is set in a Cornish Village, with lots of characters around the village to get to know. And this second book – Second Chances – in the series certainly did not disappoint.
If there was an edible book that tasted delicious it would be this one. Forget whether it’s Jam or cream on the scone first, once you open the first page and start reading it will be devoured in one. Reading this book reminds you that their are times in life when you need to consider what’s right for yourself, and move forward with confidence and happiness that you are doing just that.
This book centres around Sylvie, whose mother has passed away, who has a son ~ Sam ~ and lives on her family farm. Whilst on the beach, in her usual quiet spot where she finds solitude. She notices a man ~ Alex~ with his daughter ~ Ellie. They both strike up a conversation, and Sylvie is relieved when he says he is heading back to London.
The village school is at the heart of the community and her son starts school. But to her surprise Alex and his daughter are at the school. It appears his return to London didn’t occur. Naturally the children build a close friendship and love spending time together, and it’s with this both Sylvie and Alex also spend time together. With Sylvie finding Alex attractive and Marion, one of the school governors determined to marry Alex off. Love is in the air, or may be not as Marion doesn’t want him to be with Sylvie. But as Marion finds out more about Her, she wants her to be with Alex.
Sylvie has a desire to leave the farm and as an ex ballerina she gains a job at the school as a PE teacher. With possibilities of starting weekend ballet classes. The house move takes place, but she remains adamant that she sees Alex as a good friend only. But Alex would like more. Both are putting their children first ~ will they or won’t they. As always no spoilers here!
Once again Kitty has written a charming, adorable story that will take your mind to a gorgeous Cornish village escaping the day to day stresses and strains of everyday life. Look forward to the next novel in the series.
Thank you to Ellie, Kitty Wilson and Canelo for approaching us to read, review and join the book tour.

Such a delightful read! Every bit as good as the first one and both great stand-alone reads...

Sylvie and her son Sam are making the best of the summer days before Sam begins his school life. Alex and his daughter Ellie are having a short break from London in the gorgeous Cornish village of Penmarra. When outgoing Ellie and shy Sam make friends, the adults don't really have any choice but to become acquainted...

I loved the first book in this series; wholly original and a super story with fabulous people. To my delight, this one introduces new characters whilst still including those from the previous book - a completely new story with a different focus. I love that the author has avoided the trap of harking back to the details of the first one, meaning that it's still possible to go back and read it if you haven't done so already.

This is a charming read; the characters are all so appealing in a strong story with plenty of humour thrown in. I just adored everything about it! The setting is idyllic but living in a picturesque village doesn't mean that the inhabitants don't have to face the ups and downs of everyday life, just like the rest of us. With plenty going on, it's one which kept me glued to the page until the very last, when I released a happy sigh of contentment. A terrific read and I hope there's more to come in this topnotch series. Absolutely recommended to those who enjoy an entertaining rom-com with a bit of substance to the story!

This is another lovely series. Sylvie is an ex dancer and she meets ALex, a television journalist when their children become best friends. Sylvie is trying to make a life for herself and her son Sam and wants to build on her dance school dreams.There is an attraction between the two characters- but do they need to keep things simple? She also wants to move into her own home so that she can leave her uncle to run the family farm with his girlfriend.
The locals feel like old friends and you are rooting for Sylvie and Alex to allow themselves a chance to get together.

I adored Kitty Wilson’s Breaking the Rules, the first title in her enchanting Cornish Village School series, and she is on top form once again with the second installment of this addictive, romantic and immensely readable series: Second Chances!

Life is tough for single mum Sylvie. As if juggling the challenges and difficulties of raising a child single-handedly isn’t hard enough already, the former ballerina finds herself entangled in one domestic drama after the other. She teaches ballet in the nearest town, is trying her hardest to allay shy Alex’s fears over starting at the Penmenna Village School and she is also in the process of moving out of the farm she shares with her Uncle Tom and getting a place of her own. Tom is nobody’s idea of the perfect housemate. Cantankerous and infuriating, Sylvie cannot wait to have a home to call her own. But with so much going on and so many obstacles standing in her way, will her dream ever come true?

Television journalist Alex is used to risking life and limb to get to the story. Having reported from some of the world’s most dangerous spots, he has swapped war zones for the quiet rural idyll of the Cornish village of Penmenna, where he has moved with his adopted daughter, Ella. Having been convinced to move there by his friend Chase, Alex is looking forward to raising his daughter in such a picturesque setting and to laying down roots. Romance had not been something Alex had really been thinking about – until he claps eyes on ballerina Sylvie!

Sparks ignite from the very first moment the two clap eyes on one another, but with their kids becoming such firm friends, they decide to keep things strictly platonic between the two of them. However, that proves to be easier said than done…

Will Alex and Sylvie end up squandering this second chance at happiness? Or will they realise that their heart’s desire can be within reach – but only if they have the courage to take that leap of faith…

Kitty Wilson has done it again and penned a heartwarming and irresistible romance that has got unputdownable written all over it. The Cornish Village School – Second Chances is a gorgeous tale packed with charm, magic, pathos and heart that readers will devour in a single sitting. Alex and Sylvie’s story is funny, enjoyable and beautifully told and readers are sure to cheer them on to get their happy ending.

A lovely read that will make readers smile from start to finish, The Cornish Village School – Second Chances is another winner by Kitty Wilson!

Another slice of modern village life in Cornwall as the 'Second Chances', continues to explore life around the village school. The story focuses on Sylvie and Alex, both single parents who form an instant attraction but put their children's happiness first and decide to stay 'just friends'.
The story pans out as you'd expect but this is part of the attraction for this type of literature. The characters are contemporary, realistic and vivid. You empathise with them as they find out what life is like in the village.
If you are looking for a romantic tale, with a delightful Cornish village setting, this will suit you, enjoy.
I received a copy of this book from Canelo via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Single mum Svlvie and her son, Sam, enjoy an idyllic day at the beach until Alex and his daughter, Ellie, take ‘their’ space at the beach. Soon they become firm friends and their own little family but can they realise they are in love and their family is for real. This was such a fab story full of laughter and I really enjoyed it but I want more!!!

Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.

I had high expectations for this book, but it simply was not the read for me. I envisioned a book more along the lines of a "Miss Read" book, but instead the narrative was "too modern" to engage me. While I think the intended audience is adult, the writing style struck me as being more appropriate to a middle school audience. I did not feel a strong sense of place in Cornwall either, probably because the descriptions are brief and lack the adjectives which draw a reader into the landscape. If school stories with the headaches of modern technology, overpacked schedules, and societal problems is your idea of escape reading, give it a try. If not, go back and re-read the Fairacre and Thrush Green stories of an earlier day and time. I received an advance review copy of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

A great follow up to the first book in this series, although can be read as a stand-alone book too. A romance, difficulties, family and friends. It’s all in there. Definitely worth reading.

*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I'll be honest, I don't like chick lit. It's usually too trite and predictable for my taste. While I would classify this as chick lit, it was unusual in several ways. First, it didn't make me gag. Second, the setting of Cornwall was intriguing and really added to the book. Next, the main female character, Sylvie, was actually someone I could hang out with. She was intelligent, talented, and a devoted mother who had a sense of humor. Finally, the relationship between Sylvie and Alex was believable, and I didn't have to read any love scenes. I detest love scenes. So, well done Kitty Wilson, for allowing me to read chick lit and not vomit! I'll definitely be checking out more of her work.

Really great read. It takes you on a really great journey of different emotions. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

My trip into the Cornish village was everything I hoped it would be. The idyllic descriptions of quaint village life kindled a warm glow and a longing to read more.

Sylvie and Alex were a dream come true as far as characters go, I instantly fell in love with their pairing and longed for that sort after happy ever after ending. But for me the real stars were Sam and Ellie, they stole the show in every scene and I could have read an entire book dedicated to their antics.

If your looking for the perfect book to snuggle down with for the autumn season this is the one. It's an uplifting and feel-good story filled with perfect village life, romance and two mini stars.

The Cornish Village School-Second Chances is the second book in the Cornish Village School series, written by author Kitty Wilson. Although each book can be read as a stand-alone, I highly recommend reading the first book in the series, The Cornish Village School-Breaking the Rules.

Sylvie is a single mom, and life is definitely hectic for her right now. A former ballerina, she still continues to teach ballet classes. She lives with her Uncle Tom on his farm, but she is looking forward to finally moving out and getting a place of her own. She is also in the process of trying to get her four year old son Sam prepared for his first day of school at the Penmenna Village School. This is easier said than done, especially since he is extremely shy. Regardless of how busy she is, Sylvie keeps to her routine with Sam. Every sunny, warm day they head to the beach and spend quality time together. They have their favorite spot that is always unoccupied by anyone else...until now. As they arrive at the beach, they notice someone else has placed towels where Sylvie would normally place their own. It is not long before the owners of the towels appear, and the reaction to the man approaching completely catches Sylvie off guard. While Sylvie struggles to control her attraction to this man, introductions are made and she learns the man's name is Alex, and his daughter is Ellie. In addition to her her own reaction to Alex, she is also surprised at how quickly Sam warms to Ellie.

Alex is a television journalist that is no stranger to a busy life. He has adopted a five year old girl, Ellie, and needs to give up war zones in order to provide a more stable life for Ellie. His friend Chase has suggested he spend some time in Penmenna, and Alex has decided this is the perfect place to set down roots.. Meeting Sylvie and Sam was not part of the plan, but the two children instantly become friends. As the four of them begin spending more time together, Alex is doing his best to keep the relationship with Sylvie platonic, and nothing more. Both Alex and Sylvie want what's best for their children, but denying the growing attraction for one another is becoming more difficult as time goes by.

This is a beautifully written story about two people needing a second chance in life and a new beginning for their children. Kitty Wilson brilliantly weaves together the threads of this story, giving the reader a charming and heartfelt plot line. I absolutely fell in love with all of the characters, as well as the beautiful setting. Both Alex and Sylvie put their children first, which I admire. With that being said, their struggle to deny their attraction to one another was often humorous, but always realistic. The supporting cast of characters are just as amazing as the lead characters. The author portrays each character in a down-to-earth manner, including highlighting their attributes as well as their flaws. I loved the first book in the series, The Cornish Village School- Breaking the Rules, and enjoyed catching up with the characters. This story is a wonderful addition to the series, and it is one I would highly recommend reading.

I would like to thank Canelo and NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this heartfelt book. My views are my own, and are in no way influenced by anyone else.

The first book in this series was a 5 star read earlier in the year and this one did not disappoint. It is a heartwarming story filled with romance and relatable characters. The setting is always going to be a favourite of mine as I love Cornwall and this is most definitely a must read series for me.

With thanks to Netgalley and Canelo for this ARC in exchange for an open and honest review.

I was excited to read this after enjoying the first Cornish Village School earlier this year. Although Second chances was focused on Sylvie and Nick I was delighted that Godzilla mum Marion Marksharp and reality star Angelica appeared in this book.

Sylvie was brought up in Penmenna but left to join the Royal National Ballet in London. She decided to return to Penmenna when she found out she was pregnant with her son Sam. Shortly after returning home her mother became ill with Motor Neurone Disease and Sylvie became her carer. When her mother died she was grief stricken but has decided to turn her and Sam`s life around.

War journalist Nick had recently adopted 5 year old Ellie from the Sudan. No longer able to work abroad he went to Penmenna to spend time with his best friend Chase and his girlfriend Angelina.

One day Nick took Ellie to the beach where he met Sylvie and Sam. The children quickly made friends and Nick decided to live on Penmenna so Ellie could settle in a village school.

As the children became closer Nick and Sylvie started to spend time as a family. Nick and Sylvie were attracted to each other but decided to remain friends in case it went wrong and destroyed their modern day family unit. However Marion and the children had other ideas and devised a plan to make them realise how they feel about each other.

Second Chances was a delightful light hearted read. I enjoyed reading about the village and how village life revolves around the Penmenna Village School. I was pleased we still got to see headmistress Rosie Winter when Sylvie got a temporary job teaching PE. The finale of the book was very descriptive and I could imagine a marque in Nick`s garden filled with African delicacies and the kids dancing in traditional dress.

With its funny quirky characters this series is definitely on Par with the books written by Gervase Phinn. I look forward to the next book.