I thought this was a good story of growth and learning. I hate to rate it less than 4 stars but it's meant to be a romance and I didn't (personally) connect with the romance. We are told how much the main characters love each other but I didn't feel it.

I did adore Liz's journey of growth and finding herself. The improv was fun, although as someone with social anxiety I can't imagine it was easy for Liz to do (although that's part of her character growth).

The reasoning for going with 3 stars is the writing style. I feel like this is trying to be deep but it didn't resonate with me. Like, some of the conversations between the main characters (whether they were playing a 'scene' or just talking) felt really awkward as the reader. I don't even know how to explain it (shrugs).

Overall, it was a cute, clean, second chance romance that I think a lot of readers may love.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for a copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review!

3.5 Stars!

This is a second chance romance that was full of emotion, humor, and cozy vibes. Liz is an introvert who is trying to fix her marriage with her husband. I found her to be relatable as I am also an introvert myself. I struggled with the plot lines in this book. There was multiple, and each one didn't have a lot of buildup. There would be two chapters for a plot and then it would switch to another. Because of that, I didn't get too emotionally attached to the characters or to intrigued by what was happening. If a single plot was built up further throughout the story, the impact would've been much better for me. I did enjoy the humor that was written in this one. I was giggling with more than one scene. I love when a romance has humor because it can make any moment feel more lighthearted.

Overall, I enjoyed this read. If you're looking for a quick read and a second chance romance, then this one would be a good fit for you!

This was one of those books where the premise seemed like amazing, but the execution didn’t have the follow through. The female main character was hard to believe with her actions, and the plot wasn’t as great as the description made. It seem to be. The writing seemed a bit clunky and I just didn’t like it as much as I wish I would have.

Aspiring Autistic Author Accomplishes Astounding Act of Adoration. Ok, so that was a very painful and forced alliteration by an Autistic reviewer that actually gives an idea of what this book may be like for at least some non-Autistic readers.

Personally, I found that most of this book worked quite well - it does in fact have the far-too-common tacked on baby-in-epilogue that always leaves a sour "aftertaste" for me when the book never really mentioned even wanting kids in its overall story, but other than this quibble the book actually does work well as a story of both finding oneself and rediscovering the love one had for one's partner along the way. But part of what made it work so well - if perhaps a *touch* stereotypically - is that North worked in so many real-world examples of what life as an Autistic in the corporate world can truly be like at times, particularly as it relates to understanding others and working to be understood by them.

The emphasis on improv comedy and its "Yes, and" philosophy is a driving force in the overall narrative here and yes, perhaps is very nearly a crutch/ preachy at times about the philosophy and its purported benefits, but again, within the overall structure of the story as told... eh, *every* such story has some overarching narrative device, this one simply happens to be improv.

Overall this was a solid debut effort in the romance space, and absolutely leaves me wanting to see more from this author - which is the number one (or maybe two, after sales of this book itself) goal of any debut book. So in that regard, it did its job quite well indeed. And for those looking for "diverse reads", again, here's a neurodiverse author for you to give a shot!

Very much recommended.

This is definitely a different type of love story. The tag line being can true love happen twice with the same person. Liz and Tobin are struggling in their marriage and work to try and see if it is worth saving. Their second chance fight was a little heavier than the cover indicated. Even Liz’s attempts at improv to prepare for a pitch at work aren’t light.

I loved the MCs’ occupation was wilderness guides for a company. And I loved the MC was shown in all her social awkwardness even though I do wish it wasn’t every moment in the book. This would have helped me to connect with Liz earlier in her story.

I loved the yes and philosophy practiced as part of the improv and how that ultimately helped Liz figure and get what she wanted.

There was heart in the writing style that included both heartbreaking and heartwarming moments. And that ultimately there was redemption and hope in all of the couple’s trials and tribulations.

Gail Shalan did an excellent job voicing Liz and showing the ups and downs and anxiety that encompass her daily life. I wasn’t terribly fond of the male voice she used and that she used it for every male character. It made it a little harder to remember who Liz was speaking with. But I did appreciate that she made Tobin’s voice a little quieter than Liz’s. That seemed to fit with his personality.

While this wasn’t what I was expecting, I enjoyed this second chance romance between Liz and Tobin.

This was an entertaining book. It was interesting and drew me in. I cared about the characters and wanted to keep reading to find out what was going to happen. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to others.

4.25⭐️

Marriage in crisis is one of my least favorite romance tropes, but I still thoroughly enjoyed reading this debut from Maggie North. I always gravitate towards books with neurodivergence rep, and I loved how we get to go on Liz’s journey with her as she learns to be her true self. The pacing wasn’t perfect and I think I would have preferred this as dual POV, but by the end I was definitely emotionally invested. A few of the side characters seem primed for their own books, and I’m excited to see what Maggie has in store for us next!

*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review*

I was hoping for a strong story about the recovery of a relatable marriage in turmoil, but the story was mostly about Lizzie finding herself. I felt sympathy for Lizzie’s situation, but I didn’t really like her. I wish this was a dual POV, because I think having Tobin’s voice might have softened Lizzie’s character.

Overall, the story was too erratic for my ADHD brain to handle.

Thank you to St. Martin's Press | St. Martin's Griffin and NetGalley for an electronic advanced readers copy of this novel.

Liz Lewis feels out of place in her life. Working for an outdoor adventure company, she is sidelined to the "behind the scenes" person and doomed to be on the administrator side, while her husband Tobin is a popular guide. Everyone thinks that Tobin is too good, too popular, too handsome for Liz, and she's starting to believe it herself.

She tries to push herself out of her comfort zone in an attempt to find the magic in her life. Spurred on by her supervisor's suggestion, she joins an improv class to break out of her shell. Will she be able to stand out?

Rules for Second Chances by Maggie North was an enjoyable debut with an interesting story. Being an old improv person, I really enjoyed how she weaved in the rules of improv within her story, and her description of improv classes and performances were spot on. Looking forward to seeing what she comes up with next!

Single POV, Spicy, Second Chance, Marriage in Trouble, Found Family, Introvert x Extrovert

Featuring a FMC who is neurodivergent and tired of having to adjust herself to fit into her surroundings and relationships, Rules For Second Chances is messy, relatable, and authentic. Maggie North delivers a debut novel about the challenges of wanting to be seen and accepted as exactly as you are balanced with a second chance romance full of yearning and growth. I really enjoyed the way a multitude of relationships were displayed in this book. Friendships, coworkers, siblings, parents, in-laws, and spouse/significant other relationships were all touched on in this novel and examined.

One of the issues I have with this book is how Tobin is completely oblivious to the way Liz is treated by his mother and their coworkers. Perhaps if this had been a dual POV story and the reader had gotten a look inside his head I wouldn't feel so frustrated with him because I do understand they were both miscommunicating but how did he not see the way his own mother talked and treated Liz? Another is the pacing of the story while some things were over explained other parts were glossed over.

Liz knows she’s different, but she’s married to Tobin, the man who everyone loves. She’s used to being overlooked by everyone else, but she’s finally had enough of him pretending there is nothing wrong in their marriage. She decides they are finished, and decides to take up improv comedy to try to learn how to be more like everyone else and get the promotion she deserves. But when Tobin is the only one who will help her practice, and they find themselves starting to reconnect, will it be enough for her, or will she choose the dreams she gave up for lost so long ago?

I adored this book. Liz is neurodiverse and struggling with how to get along in the world (she’s never been diagnosed, so she just thinks there is something wrong with her). And her husband has his own coping mechanisms born of his own trauma, so he refuses to admit that there is a problem. Allowing someone to cross boundaries because they are “Family” paints over all kinds of toxic behavior, and their marriage suffered from the toxicity of their respective families. But North treats all this with respect and realistic interactions…and loads of spice! I enjoyed reading about that freedom and connection that can come from improv (I had no idea) and how Liz and Tobin empowered themselves and their own relationship. Plus, there’s a great LGBTQ+ rep! BE YOURSELF. I found this poignant and wryly funny, and appreciated the message it left me with: Don’t spend energy on worry or regret on those who don’t get that.

I really loved this book. The reviews seem to be pretty split, but this one really did it for me. I loved everything about Liz, maybe because I felt like I relate to her, someone who's so willing to be on the sidelines so often, and just wants to find the recipe to jumpstarting her life, taking it back for herself.

Second chance romance can be hit or miss. The angst can be too heavy, or the relationship can be grating, but what I loved about this one was Liz and Tobin's willingness to commit and do the work to get back to a better space, because it is work sometimes.

Some people may not enjoy Liz, but being in her brain and getting to watch her go through this journey of self discovery was a great joy.

Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Maggie North's debut was phenomenal. The feeling that she evoked were something I have not had in a minute from a book. I loved this so much - I cannot wait to read her next book.

Liz has always strived to be more. To be everything anyone has wanted her to be. Someone who “people pleases.” So of course she’d get mistaken for a waiter at her own birthday party. It changes how she sees herself and how she should start living. Stepping out of that comfort zone.

This book was a little heavier than I expected. Of course anyone has self doubt and this book has that. It also has second chance romance, which I love. I wanted to live this book in its entirety but man was it repetitive. But the whole aspect of reinventing oneself was very capturing.

Liz has reached a crossroads with both her professional and her personal life. At age 30, she finds herself unhappy with both and wanting to make a change. When it is suggested that she join a local improv class, she takes this opportunity in hopes that it helps her gain some confidence to act on her goals.

Rules for Second Chances is a stand-alone romance with open-door content.

What a glorious debut! Rules for Second Chances is a moving, beautiful love story. Marriage in trouble romances seem to be on the rarer side as far tropes go. The author really did an exceptional job with what could be considered a more sensitive topic in romances while keeping it realistic.

I highly recommend the audiobook. I actually read through the ebook 1st 6 months ago and enjoyed listening through the audio just as much now. The book is solo narrated by Gail Shalan and she does well keeping all of the characters separated and distinctive.

This was one of the first books that I read this year and still one of the most impactful. I look forward to reading many more books from Maggie North in the future.

I voluntarily read, listened to, and reviewed advanced copies of this book and audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I really enjoyed this book! This is one that grows on you as you read. It was more layered and nuanced than I first thought, which became evident as we learned more about Liz and those around her. I think the difficulty I had connecting with Liz, the female lead, is a reflection of her experience in the book. She is someone who has trouble with being understood and seen. I’d venture to guess that many readers won’t understand her reasons or methods in asking for a separation, but as I read it became clear to me. As they say the journey is not linear and it definitely isn’t for Liz, but it’s one she needed to go on.

Tobin is such a sweet, tender-hearted man, but he’s not without fault in their marital difficulties. There are definite boundary issues with his mother, but that’s also something born of his own upbringing and dysfunctional relationship with his absentee father. Liz’s desire to make changes in her life had a domino effect for those around her, Tobin included, unveiling truths about their own motivations, but also encouraging them to find their magic as well. Watching Liz and Tobin work through their challenges both separately and together was inspiring. I loved the nod to famous rom-coms and love stories sprinkled in (Liz is a fan).

I went through a gamut of emotions reading this book, frustration, sadness, heartbreak, joy and I think you will too. I’d especially recommend this to those who like reading about neurodivergent characters, marriage in trouble and family dysfunction. There is also bi representation. As someone who works with those on the Autism Spectrum, I’m so glad I read this and I look forward to more from Maggie!

Rules for Second Chances by Maggie North
Contemporary chick lit, romance with diverse characteristics for the couple. Second chance in that the couple is working on themselves and their marriage through therapy and improv.
Liz Lewis isn’t comfortable in social situations. She’s a data analyst and a numbers person. It’s where she excels. But that also means she is overlooked at promotion time since she doesn’t have the skills or experience to sell her ideas or her personality.
Her 30th birthday is a catalyst for herself and her marriage. She needs to learn to stop being a bit player in her own life. She’s told an improv class may be the ice breaker she needs. Maybe it will help her marriage as well as her confidence at work.
One key is to stop saying “no”. Use, “yes, and” to keep the conversation moving.

🎧 I alternated between an ebook and audiobook. The audiobook is performed by Gail Shalan who does a wonderful job with the two distinct voices, as well as the clear stress and anxiety that Liz is going through. She also performs Tobin’s voice a bit softer and appeasing which fit his character dead on. I listened to this at 1.5, my preferred speed.

Sad story that has a happy ending after a lot of soul searching and obstacles. I’m glad I was able to listen to this and not just read an ecopy. I’m not sure I would have finished if I just had an ebook. I need more happy, love and laughter before the 94% mark. So yes, a lot of angst here but they are dong the right thing in working on it. Yes, they clearly loved each other. But the story is them both finding a way to start over and get out of the trap of not talking to each other. Doing what they individually think is best without ever discussing. Which was sometimes hard to then have them walk away from each other as they were still working through their issues for the majority of the story.
They wanted and follow a form of therapy and that is never a bad thing in my opinion. It’s just a lot of work.
If you like angst and self improvement and figuring out those deeply hidden emotions, this romance is ultimately happy so don’t be afraid to jump in.

I received a copy of t this from NetGalley and Macmillan Audio.

I love a second chance romance, and marriage in trouble is also right up there! Rules For Second Chances is a unique and beautiful story about love and confidence and growth. It has a lovely setting, great characters, and a cat - *bangs gavel* sold!

Sometimes you read a book that just WORKS. The writing is expressive and I connected so deeply with the characters. I will absolutely be buying a copy for my shelves and re-reading this beautiful story.

A favorite out of context quote: “Some days, I’m nothing but a primal scream in a beige blouse.”

Thank you to St. Martin's Griffin for the eARC. All thoughts are my own.

The story was good and had some good moments. I struggled with it some as I didn't fall in love with the characters right away. But by the end I was rooting for Liz. There were some laugh out loud moments. I did like to see how the characters grew through the story. It also confirmed that I would never survive doing improv comedy! I received an advance copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Almost immediately you feel for Liz, the main character of Maggie North’s Rules for Second Chances. The poor woman has just turned thirty, is incredibly socially awkward, to the point where she is barely acknowledged at her own birthday party. Also doesn’t help how her coworkers treat her or her mother-in-law for that matter, who Liz can’t even bring herself to call by her first name. North actually does an extremely good job dealing with Liz’s social awkwardness, putting it a way people will sympathize with even if they can’t fully understand how some people can be the way they are. (Having known a few myself I have to give North props for being able to pull off the character so authentically.) However, this was also part of the problem I had with the book, and I’m fully aware this a ‘me’ problem. And to be honest I suppose problem is probably not the correct word for it. You see Liz’s issues actually make this a bit of a ‘heavier’ read than the lighthearted second chance romance I was expecting. (As I said, that is totally on me and not a reflection on the story itself.) As for the said story, it’s good. I liked the characters and the ‘improv’ aspect was certainly a unique way to go. I think if you just know going in that it’s a little more complex than many lighter second chance romances you may have read in the past then you’ll probably enjoy it. I’d like to thank St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review Rules for Second Chances.

https://www.amazon.com/review/R8ASLQ9PO4SC0/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_SRTC0204BT_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv