The Second History takes place in a post apocalyptic world where there is little trust between strangers.

Jane and Eban leave their shelter home in search of a place called Heaven. Jane is pregnant, but if this pregnancy is anything like her previous ones, it will soon terminate. Jane wants to leave home and search the world. All Jane and Eban know of the world and the cities, is that they are dangerous. As Jane and Eban reflect on their lives before they met each other, we learn more about this strange world. Families flee from one another. Peddlers have their tongues cut out. Items are traded for pelts and foraged goodsThe pair can only learn of the world through books and what their parents have told them. But is any of it true?

Jane and Eban finally find Heaven, only to learn that it is just as mistrustful, dangerous, and deceiving as any other place they've been. The only problem is, those who dwell in Heaven have taken an oath of silence and have locked Jane up in a house. Is it to ensure her pregnancy goes to term? Is it to keep her safe? Or is there something more nefarious at foot.

In her solitude, Jane is tasked with transcribing a journal detailing the history of Heaven. Only, the woman in charge only gives her one page at a time. striking names and events out as it suits her. She keeps the complete journal locked up in a cupboard. Only one day, the key is accidentally left behind. Jane unlocks the cupboard and reads the truth of what happened in Heaven.

This was a really good book, easy to read, and very interesting. I really enjoyed it!

For fans of Station Eleven, The Book of M and dystopian novels. This book made me consider what my own children will remember of what I teach them and tell them about our family and my perception of the world around us - especially poignant in today's unique times! I was particularly moved by the relationships between parents and children, and how what seem to be small choices can have intense repercussions for years to come. How little we really can ever know about anyone else's true feelings and motivations. Strong world-building.
Well done - and Canadian to boot!

This was an intriguing, complex post-apocalyptic love story. I enjoyed the way the author wove in memories and writing from the past to gradually flesh out the characters and their situation, and I appreciated the ending. I'll definitely be recommending it to customers who enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction with a more literary bent, like Station 11, Moon of the Crusted Snow, and Good Morning, Midnight.