Reuben's Gift: A moving contemporary novel about fate, second chances and the lives that connect us

On a rainy day in Newcastle, a Metro train grinds to a halt. For four passengers already facing life-changing moments, an hour-long delay is the last thing they need.

Andrew is heading home carrying a secret that could destroy his family. Marie is desperately planning an escape from a life of fear. Elizabeth is on her way to meet the son she gave up decades ago. And Kevin is trying to get home to the brother who depends on him.

Elsewhere in the city, homeless Reuben shelters from the storm with only his faithful dog, Boy, beside him. Once a husband and father with a family of his own, life has taken almost everything from him. But Reuben's story isn't over yet.

As four lives take unexpected turns, moments of heartbreak give way to hope, fractured families begin to heal and new connections are formed. And when journalist Libby begins asking questions about what happened that rainy day, she discovers that one seemingly forgotten man may have left behind a greater legacy than anyone could have imagined.

Can one moment of fate really offer a second chance to those who need it the most?

Reuben's Gift is a moving and uplifting novel about love, loss, family and the unexpected ways our lives touch others, perfect for fans of Fredrik Backman and Matt Haig.