"A Second Home" (French title: "Une double famille") is a novella written by Honore de Balzac, a prominent French novelist and playwright of the 19th century. It is part of his larger work, "La Comedie Humaine," a series of interconnected novels and stories portraying French society in the early 19th century.

In "A Second Home," Balzac explores the complexities of familial relationships, social expectations, and the clash between duty and desire. The story revolves around Madame de Fischtaminel, a wealthy widow, and her family, who are faced with financial troubles. To alleviate their financial burdens, Madame de Fischtaminel decides to take in a lodger, Monsieur de Merret, a retired army officer who is also her lover.

As the plot unfolds, tensions arise within the household as Madame de Fischtaminel's daughter, Hortense, falls in love with Monsieur de Merret. The situation becomes even more complicated when Hortense's fianc