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Port Anna
An enchanting debut novel exploring second chances and blossoming romance in a charming port town in Maine, perfect for fans of J. Courtney Sullivan’s The Cliffs and Catherine Newman’s Sandwich.
Just about everything has gone wrong for Gwen Gilmore over the past year. She’s lost her mother, her teaching job, and been dumped by her—albeit not that great—long-term boyfriend. Adrift and out of options, she packs her life into her barely functioning car and makes the lonely drive north, to the only place she can think of her family’s aging cottage on the Maine coast, Periwinkle, which she’s recently inherited.
The cottage and Port Anna, the foggy Maine town of Gwen’s childhood, are unchanged in many ways. For Gwen, they are full of the ghosts of her past—boyfriends, forgotten creative dreams, and painful memories of a sister lost too young. Periwinkle is also home to some more literal The Misses, friendly spirits who have long watched over the cottage, but who now seem strangely unsettled, slamming doors and moving furniture in the night. And behind its charming façade, Port Anna has not escaped the realities of modern life. Family homes are being razed to make space for garish condos, the cottage, coveted by a relentless local realtor, is about to be condemned, and the unsolved disappearance of a teenage girl has set the town on edge. On the face of it, it’s an odd place to try to make a new start.
But there are glimmers of hope everywhere, if only Gwen can open herself up to possibility. Sparks fly with Leandro, an Argentinian artist, as aloof and witty as he is wildly attractive. Old friends and former flames come out of the woodwork, bringing with them new opportunities and chances to laugh again. Even in the face of potential happiness, though, it seems some secrets refuse to stay buried. As the summer crowds return to the city and the locals hunker down for another harsh Maine winter, Gwen will be forced to make choices that will change her life forever.
Just about everything has gone wrong for Gwen Gilmore over the past year. She’s lost her mother, her teaching job, and been dumped by her—albeit not that great—long-term boyfriend. Adrift and out of options, she packs her life into her barely functioning car and makes the lonely drive north, to the only place she can think of her family’s aging cottage on the Maine coast, Periwinkle, which she’s recently inherited.
The cottage and Port Anna, the foggy Maine town of Gwen’s childhood, are unchanged in many ways. For Gwen, they are full of the ghosts of her past—boyfriends, forgotten creative dreams, and painful memories of a sister lost too young. Periwinkle is also home to some more literal The Misses, friendly spirits who have long watched over the cottage, but who now seem strangely unsettled, slamming doors and moving furniture in the night. And behind its charming façade, Port Anna has not escaped the realities of modern life. Family homes are being razed to make space for garish condos, the cottage, coveted by a relentless local realtor, is about to be condemned, and the unsolved disappearance of a teenage girl has set the town on edge. On the face of it, it’s an odd place to try to make a new start.
But there are glimmers of hope everywhere, if only Gwen can open herself up to possibility. Sparks fly with Leandro, an Argentinian artist, as aloof and witty as he is wildly attractive. Old friends and former flames come out of the woodwork, bringing with them new opportunities and chances to laugh again. Even in the face of potential happiness, though, it seems some secrets refuse to stay buried. As the summer crowds return to the city and the locals hunker down for another harsh Maine winter, Gwen will be forced to make choices that will change her life forever.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published July 1, 2025
38 people are currently reading
7772 people want to read
About the author
Libby Buck
1 book60 followersLibby Buck earned a PhD in art history from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She and her husband share three daughters, an English cocker spaniel, and an abiding love for the great state of Maine. Port Anna is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
December 29, 2024
When I was invited to read this book, I could not pass it up due to its stunning, beautiful cover. I also loved the synopsis and thought that I would resonate with our main character, Gwen Gilmore. However. I found that looks can be deceiving and I should have read the synopsis more carefully because there was just WAY too much going on in this story. In fact, I felt that it was a bit all over the place and I unfortunately lost interest very early on.
To briefly sum this story up, Gwen goes back to her home in Maine (which is called the Periwinkle), after being away for twenty years. Gwen reconnects with old friends, looks for new employment, finds new love, deals with old grief from her past, and even deals with ghosts living in her home 🙄. And let’s not forget about the disappearance of a teenage girl…
I never knew where this story was going.
I felt lost half of the time.
Too many unnecessary details/overly descriptive.
Lackluster storyline.
I was really hoping to love this book, but it unfortunately just didn’t work out for me. I really wanted to connect and resonate with Gwen’s character, but that unfortunately didn’t work out either. So while this wasn’t my cup of tea, it may work out better for somebody else.
(2.5 stars)
Many thanks to NetGalley, Simon & Schuster, and the author for an ARC of this book which I am leaving an honest review.
Publication date: July 1, 2025
Genre~ Women’s Fiction, Literary Fiction
To briefly sum this story up, Gwen goes back to her home in Maine (which is called the Periwinkle), after being away for twenty years. Gwen reconnects with old friends, looks for new employment, finds new love, deals with old grief from her past, and even deals with ghosts living in her home 🙄. And let’s not forget about the disappearance of a teenage girl…
I never knew where this story was going.
I felt lost half of the time.
Too many unnecessary details/overly descriptive.
Lackluster storyline.
I was really hoping to love this book, but it unfortunately just didn’t work out for me. I really wanted to connect and resonate with Gwen’s character, but that unfortunately didn’t work out either. So while this wasn’t my cup of tea, it may work out better for somebody else.
(2.5 stars)
Many thanks to NetGalley, Simon & Schuster, and the author for an ARC of this book which I am leaving an honest review.
Publication date: July 1, 2025
Genre~ Women’s Fiction, Literary Fiction
April 23, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ ½
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
This debut novel follows the story of Gwen, a woman in her forties who is returning to her family’s cottage, located in the fictional coastal town of Port Anna, after many setbacks in her life, like a failed relationship and career loss.
This aging seaside cottage was owned by her family for generations. She goes there again for solace and some rethinking of where she stands. Going back there awakens many memories and secrets. What surprises Gwen is that this time she is drawn to the community that she once fled from. It will be like an opportunity to rekindle old friendships and explore what used to be her home once again.
The story is not fully contemporary fiction and has some magical realism elements in it due to the presence of ghosts. At times, the plot felt overcrowded with events, making it seem unnecessarily stuffed. There are parts of the story that will appeal to many readers, but the ghost part might not be among them.
In my opinion, the overall atmosphere of the coastal town is what makes this story appealing. That atmosphere reminded me of the movie Safe Haven. Although the two stories are different, they both take place in a coastal town and have ghosts! If you loved the atmosphere of the movie, you might also love the atmosphere of this book, which I think can be an excellent beach read choice.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the ARC of this book.
The Review
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
This debut novel follows the story of Gwen, a woman in her forties who is returning to her family’s cottage, located in the fictional coastal town of Port Anna, after many setbacks in her life, like a failed relationship and career loss.
This aging seaside cottage was owned by her family for generations. She goes there again for solace and some rethinking of where she stands. Going back there awakens many memories and secrets. What surprises Gwen is that this time she is drawn to the community that she once fled from. It will be like an opportunity to rekindle old friendships and explore what used to be her home once again.
The story is not fully contemporary fiction and has some magical realism elements in it due to the presence of ghosts. At times, the plot felt overcrowded with events, making it seem unnecessarily stuffed. There are parts of the story that will appeal to many readers, but the ghost part might not be among them.
In my opinion, the overall atmosphere of the coastal town is what makes this story appealing. That atmosphere reminded me of the movie Safe Haven. Although the two stories are different, they both take place in a coastal town and have ghosts! If you loved the atmosphere of the movie, you might also love the atmosphere of this book, which I think can be an excellent beach read choice.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the ARC of this book.
The Review
March 3, 2025
What a nice little trip to Maine I just took right in the middle of winter!
The author's love for the New England state is abundantly clear in this book. Readers are transported to the coast, complete with a lighthouse, sailboats, and nineteenth century cottages with ceilings of knotted wood and roofs of silvered shingles.
Our main character Gwen left her hometown of Port Anna over twenty years ago in the wake of a personal tragedy. Now in her forties and suddenly without the job and partner she assumed would be hers forever, she returns with her tail tucked between her legs. In Port Anna Gwen spends time confronting her missteps, as well as reconnecting with old friends and making some new acquaintances (including a potential love interest and a runaway teen hiding out in the forest). She begins to build her life anew.
While mostly a contemporary fiction novel, there are dashes of magical realism sprinkled throughout the story as well, most prominently exhibited by the Misses - ghosts of the lesbian couple who built Gwen's family cottage who still let their opinions on the matters in their home known by making the walls creak and the doors slam. There is also the legend of the woman lighthouse keeper who would dive into the sea to save drowning sailors, and what ultimately became of her.
Besides being transportative, this was a very healing story about meeting past mistakes head on and putting one foot in front of the other until one finds their way in the world once again. Much thanks to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my unbiased review.
The author's love for the New England state is abundantly clear in this book. Readers are transported to the coast, complete with a lighthouse, sailboats, and nineteenth century cottages with ceilings of knotted wood and roofs of silvered shingles.
Our main character Gwen left her hometown of Port Anna over twenty years ago in the wake of a personal tragedy. Now in her forties and suddenly without the job and partner she assumed would be hers forever, she returns with her tail tucked between her legs. In Port Anna Gwen spends time confronting her missteps, as well as reconnecting with old friends and making some new acquaintances (including a potential love interest and a runaway teen hiding out in the forest). She begins to build her life anew.
While mostly a contemporary fiction novel, there are dashes of magical realism sprinkled throughout the story as well, most prominently exhibited by the Misses - ghosts of the lesbian couple who built Gwen's family cottage who still let their opinions on the matters in their home known by making the walls creak and the doors slam. There is also the legend of the woman lighthouse keeper who would dive into the sea to save drowning sailors, and what ultimately became of her.
Besides being transportative, this was a very healing story about meeting past mistakes head on and putting one foot in front of the other until one finds their way in the world once again. Much thanks to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my unbiased review.
July 3, 2025
Port Anna is an atmospheric, and charming character driven story about second chances and finding yourself again. Gwen left her family's coastal cottage, Periwinkle, in Port Anna Maine 24 years ago after a tragedy. Now she has lost her job, lost her boyfriend, her mom passed away and finances are a struggle. She decides to return to Periwinkle when she inherits it from her family.
Taking place in Maine, it really was like a character in itself. The descriptions and the way the author just has you feeling like you're there was just lovely. As for Gwen, her story makes for an enjoyable read. There's some magical realism, as Periwinkle has friendly ghosts that live there. That was really fun. There's romance with a torch of mystery too. I found this to be a hopeful story and I love reading it. This was a great beach read.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Taking place in Maine, it really was like a character in itself. The descriptions and the way the author just has you feeling like you're there was just lovely. As for Gwen, her story makes for an enjoyable read. There's some magical realism, as Periwinkle has friendly ghosts that live there. That was really fun. There's romance with a torch of mystery too. I found this to be a hopeful story and I love reading it. This was a great beach read.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
August 20, 2025
Gwen's life is falling apart. Her mother recently passed away, she was fired from her job and her boyfriend broke up with her. She packs up what's left of her life and heads to her childhood home she inherited. It's a quaint cottage with ocean views, boarding the woods in Maine. Upon her arrival, she is faced with ghosts from her past, a pushy realtor trying to buy her land and someone lurking in and around her house.
It's a slow start, it was hard to get through the first third of the book. However, as the story progressed the pacing got better and the last quarter was unputdownable. What kept me going was the setting. You can tell the author loves Maine with her whole heart. It felt atmospheric, like she captured every detail of her surroundings with precision and an all seeing eye. I also really enjoyed watching Gwen's gradual transformation from closed off to guard down with old friends, a new flame and the community.
Port Anna is about forgiveness and new beginnings, a thoughtful read.
It's a slow start, it was hard to get through the first third of the book. However, as the story progressed the pacing got better and the last quarter was unputdownable. What kept me going was the setting. You can tell the author loves Maine with her whole heart. It felt atmospheric, like she captured every detail of her surroundings with precision and an all seeing eye. I also really enjoyed watching Gwen's gradual transformation from closed off to guard down with old friends, a new flame and the community.
Port Anna is about forgiveness and new beginnings, a thoughtful read.
July 27, 2025
4 stars. Port Anna is a fun and entertaining summertime read with ghosts, not just of the past for our MC Gwen.. but of real ghosts or spirits called “The Misses,” the friendly keepers of an older Maine coastal cottage, the Periwinkle. Gwen inherits the cottage and returns to Port Anna looking for a fresh start after the recent loss of her mother, boyfriend and job. There’s a romance twist as Gwen still feels those old familiar sparks for her long ago love, but also a past mystery comes to light threatening everything Gwen touches—yet goodness and hope perseveres. Bucks impressive writing kept me invested, and the atmospheric setting with its vivid descriptions transported me to a picturesque Maine coast with its lighthouse, sailboats, the sea lapping at its shores and Maines beloved hand-detailed historic homes seated cliffside. Was very impressed with Cassandra Campbell’s performance and do recommend the audio. 🎧 Pub. 7/1/25
June 29, 2025
Port Anna by Libby Buck. Thanks to @simonbooks #simonbooksbuddy for the gifted Arc ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Gwen Gilmore has lost her boyfriend, mother, and job, when she comes home to stay at her family’s cottage on the Maine coast. The cottage and town haven’t changed much, but it brings many memories back from Gwen.
This is a quiet novel that brings the Maine and small town atmosphere to life. I loved the different characters from the town that we get to know. There are a lot of sub plots going on but it does not get confusing. The writing style is well done and it’s hard to believe it’s a debut.
Port Anna comes out 7/1.
Gwen Gilmore has lost her boyfriend, mother, and job, when she comes home to stay at her family’s cottage on the Maine coast. The cottage and town haven’t changed much, but it brings many memories back from Gwen.
This is a quiet novel that brings the Maine and small town atmosphere to life. I loved the different characters from the town that we get to know. There are a lot of sub plots going on but it does not get confusing. The writing style is well done and it’s hard to believe it’s a debut.
Port Anna comes out 7/1.
August 8, 2025
PORT ANNA by Libby Buck is basically a love letter to Maine. The eastern state has been on my bucket list to visit for years now, and Buck’s gorgeous descriptions have solidified my decision to bump it WAY up the list. The east coast is calling my name! Hopefully next summer.🤞
This is one of those slow, quiet, and thoughtful novels that I can’t get enough of with beautiful and atmospheric writing that pulls you in immediately. It follows Gwen Gilmore, a teacher who recently lost her mother, job, and boyfriend, so she decides to make her way back home to Maine. She needs a fresh start, so she moves into her family’s old cottage, and is welcomed by some friendly ghosts. Yes, you read that correctly. Trust me, just roll with it. The reader soon learns about Gwen’s heartbreaking past, the tragic reason why she left all those years ago, and the guilt that she still carries.
I was fully immersed and invested in Gwen’s story—past and present—but was even more impressed by where the author took the story about Gwen’s family cottage and Port Anna, the town itself. As a historical fiction fan, I appreciated the blend of genres —from contemporary, to historical, some magical realism, and then a little touch of romance. It made for a very well rounded novel.
READ THIS IF YOU ENJOY:
- Slow-burning pace
- Character-driven novels
- Haunted houses
- Maine setting
- Starting over stories
- Mystery and intrigue
- Light romance
- Nature and water
- Rekindling old friendships
- Reflections on loss and grief
Overall, I was very impressed with this debut—especially Buck’s style of writing. I hope to read more from the author in the future. PORT ANNA is out now! 4/5 solid stars!
This is one of those slow, quiet, and thoughtful novels that I can’t get enough of with beautiful and atmospheric writing that pulls you in immediately. It follows Gwen Gilmore, a teacher who recently lost her mother, job, and boyfriend, so she decides to make her way back home to Maine. She needs a fresh start, so she moves into her family’s old cottage, and is welcomed by some friendly ghosts. Yes, you read that correctly. Trust me, just roll with it. The reader soon learns about Gwen’s heartbreaking past, the tragic reason why she left all those years ago, and the guilt that she still carries.
I was fully immersed and invested in Gwen’s story—past and present—but was even more impressed by where the author took the story about Gwen’s family cottage and Port Anna, the town itself. As a historical fiction fan, I appreciated the blend of genres —from contemporary, to historical, some magical realism, and then a little touch of romance. It made for a very well rounded novel.
READ THIS IF YOU ENJOY:
- Slow-burning pace
- Character-driven novels
- Haunted houses
- Maine setting
- Starting over stories
- Mystery and intrigue
- Light romance
- Nature and water
- Rekindling old friendships
- Reflections on loss and grief
Overall, I was very impressed with this debut—especially Buck’s style of writing. I hope to read more from the author in the future. PORT ANNA is out now! 4/5 solid stars!
February 25, 2025
A love letter to Maine, and anyone who is looking to untether themselves from the burdens of the past, Port Anna is a beautiful, nostalgic debut that will tug at your heartstrings. Gwen Gilmore lost almost everything, and is driving up to her old family cabin in Maine to try and find her footing in life again. There, she is met with some old friends – many of whom have changed in ways that don't necessarily meet the eye; the broader community that's eager to welcome Gwen back; a couple of benevolent ghosts; a mystery to solve; and the many dark shadows of her troublesome past. I was first drawn in by the evocative setting, as well as a curiosity about what happened in Gwen's past and whether she would find a way back into her community's fold – and back to herself. But as the winter tightened its grip over Maine and Gwen's financial troubles took an even more sinister turn, I found myself sitting at the edge of my seat, unable to stop turning the pages. This is definitely a debut worth reading!
August 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this enchanting story of a woman returning to her childhood summer home in Maine to escape her life and in the process has to deal with the intense grief of her past. This book is very well written and a quick read, though I had some issues with the ending and the terrible decisions that Gwen makes, it is overall a great story with very charming setting.
December 11, 2024
“Port Anna” is a captivating debut novel by Libby Buck. The main character is a woman who returns to her family’s summer cottage in a small town on the coast of Maine after a series of traumatic setbacks in her life. She is warmly welcomed and intends to start her life anew when ghosts, childhood friends, romance, and a teenage runaway keep her choosing terrible life decisions. Ultimately, she begins to face her past and she begins to realize the value of being true to yourself and the importance of friends who are your chosen family. I loved the beautiful descriptions of the setting and the ghosts both literal and metaphorical as characters and am looking forward to reading Ms. Bucks next book.
Thank you NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 4, 2025
Port Anna focuses on main character, Gwen, who is down on her luck and decides to move back to her family’s summer home in Port Anna, Maine. In Port Anna, Gwen must confront the figurative and literal ghosts of her past while trying to get a fresh start in her life.
Gwen’s story contains themes of romance, mystery, grief, betrayal, growth, found family, and even some magical realism. I think author Libby Buck did a fantastic job of setting the scene of this story. Her depictions of this fictional town made me want to book a trip to Maine ASAP. The story kept me entertained and overall I really enjoyed it. I’m so glad I took a chance on this author debut and this book will definitely be on my recommendation list.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Simon & Schuster, and of course Libby Buck for this advanced copy!
Gwen’s story contains themes of romance, mystery, grief, betrayal, growth, found family, and even some magical realism. I think author Libby Buck did a fantastic job of setting the scene of this story. Her depictions of this fictional town made me want to book a trip to Maine ASAP. The story kept me entertained and overall I really enjoyed it. I’m so glad I took a chance on this author debut and this book will definitely be on my recommendation list.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Simon & Schuster, and of course Libby Buck for this advanced copy!
December 23, 2024
This book had me at Maine! Port Anna is a wonderful novel about family, life, love, regrets, and what's most important in life. After being fired from her University job in North Carolina, Gwen moves to her late mother's cottage in coastal Maine, back to the place she grew up and lost her beloved sister. Once home, she finds old friends who disappoint as well as old friends who give her lifeline. There's a touch of magical realism, some romance, and the wonderful feel of the Maine coast. Don't miss this book. It's a great novel for book groups, so much to discuss.
January 3, 2025
This delightful story takes place in Maine where Gwen has returned after being away from her family’s summer home for many years. Gwen is at a crossroad in her life. Her mother has passed away and she has inherited the dilapidated and haunted cottage that holds some wonderful, and also some devastating memories. Her long term relationship has recently ended, her career is unfulfilling, she is in financial straights, and she has decided to return to the cottage to start a new phase of her life.
Returning to the cottage also means she can no longer suppress her memories of her little sister’s drowning that occurred decades earlier here when she was a teen. Her feelings of guilt and sadness come back to her along with the cottage’s familiar ghosts. The story is about reconnecting with old friends, making new friends, a new love, and also dealing with an old friend’s betrayal. All of this made for an interesting and nostalgic story.
Returning to the cottage also means she can no longer suppress her memories of her little sister’s drowning that occurred decades earlier here when she was a teen. Her feelings of guilt and sadness come back to her along with the cottage’s familiar ghosts. The story is about reconnecting with old friends, making new friends, a new love, and also dealing with an old friend’s betrayal. All of this made for an interesting and nostalgic story.
October 16, 2025
A lyrical, atmospheric debut set against the backdrop of a Maine winter, PORT ANNA tells the story of one woman's journey to find belonging and acceptance in the splintered remnants of her life.
When Gwen returns to her family's abandoned cottage overlooking the ocean, she's running away from her old life, not running toward a new one. She's lost everything, and this old house--that isn't winterized--is her only refuge. She literally has nothing else--no family, no career, no money, no partner. No dreams. And the old cottage contains ghosts both deeply personal and 'real'.
As she reconnects with people from her past, including old classmates and boyfriends, she meets new people: a charismatic artist who comes and goes; a teenage girl with secrets; an ambitious real estate agent who shows a little too much interest in Gwen's land.
But even in a harsh winter, there is beauty and hope. And maybe a second chance at life and love.
When Gwen returns to her family's abandoned cottage overlooking the ocean, she's running away from her old life, not running toward a new one. She's lost everything, and this old house--that isn't winterized--is her only refuge. She literally has nothing else--no family, no career, no money, no partner. No dreams. And the old cottage contains ghosts both deeply personal and 'real'.
As she reconnects with people from her past, including old classmates and boyfriends, she meets new people: a charismatic artist who comes and goes; a teenage girl with secrets; an ambitious real estate agent who shows a little too much interest in Gwen's land.
But even in a harsh winter, there is beauty and hope. And maybe a second chance at life and love.
May 14, 2025
I had delayed reading this ARC for months after receiving it, and I’m glad I did.
I should have read the description more closely. Then, I would have realized that I didn’t need to read another book about a “damsel in distress who returns to her hometown, interacts with high school boyfriends, and so on. We’ve all read this trope before, and this one is just as predictable and forgetful.
I never really connected with the main character (Gwen) and found myself skimming through most of the book. Yes, it’s a beach read, but there are far better options than this book.
This novel was compared to Sandwich, which is far superior. Try that one instead!
I should have read the description more closely. Then, I would have realized that I didn’t need to read another book about a “damsel in distress who returns to her hometown, interacts with high school boyfriends, and so on. We’ve all read this trope before, and this one is just as predictable and forgetful.
I never really connected with the main character (Gwen) and found myself skimming through most of the book. Yes, it’s a beach read, but there are far better options than this book.
This novel was compared to Sandwich, which is far superior. Try that one instead!
May 19, 2025
4 stars ⭐️
Thank you Simon Books for this gorgeous ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was SUCH a pleasant surprise from a debut author! I have to admit I expressed interest in this book simply because of the cover but once I got into the pages I knew instantly I would enjoy it. This book was so many things at one time - but in the best way. A story about grief, coming home, finding your way through tough times, mending and creating families and you know what else? Magic. Magic and fairy tales.
⭐️ What I liked:
- This writing is simple but elegant. Extremely descriptive and moody. It felt like walking on the beach during a chilly fall day the entire book. This was probably my favorite part (I likened this to an Adrienne Young novel in the way that the atmosphere and slight magical elements power the story)
- The story was just enough. I loved that things weren’t overcomplicated, I loved that it didn’t try hard to be something bigger than it was. A simple story is good for the heart and that was this.
- The small pieces of magic and fairy tale like elements aided the story. This was a fun twist on a story that would have other wise been categorized as a simple women’s fiction / suspense novel.
- I enjoyed the feeling of facing grief/ coming home / found family / finding your place in life vibes. I love a character down on their luck and being able to watch their journey through hard times.
- The back stories were very compelling, nostalgic and emotional. It made me feel for the characters in a deeper way. It also gave the story some stormy sky feelings which I really loved.
⭐️ What kept this from a full five?
- I wanted more Leandro. Plain and simple. I loved every thing he was a part of and I wish he was in it a little more than he was. I didn’t go into this expecting a romance but because Leandro was so brilliant, it left a chill when he wasn’t around.
- I found that the interactions between characters were choppy throughout the book. I just didn’t love the dialogue and couldn’t fully sink into a scene or conversation before it was ripped away too quickly. The richest parts of the writing were when main character Gwen was on her own, interestingly enough. I would have loved some longer lasting dialogues or to be able to stay in a moment for a little longer.
⭐️ Overall, this was such a refreshing read. I tore through this. I recommend this for a rainy week during the summer. For a time when you want to relax and read something simple but also don’t want fluffy and light.
Thank you Simon Books for this gorgeous ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was SUCH a pleasant surprise from a debut author! I have to admit I expressed interest in this book simply because of the cover but once I got into the pages I knew instantly I would enjoy it. This book was so many things at one time - but in the best way. A story about grief, coming home, finding your way through tough times, mending and creating families and you know what else? Magic. Magic and fairy tales.
⭐️ What I liked:
- This writing is simple but elegant. Extremely descriptive and moody. It felt like walking on the beach during a chilly fall day the entire book. This was probably my favorite part (I likened this to an Adrienne Young novel in the way that the atmosphere and slight magical elements power the story)
- The story was just enough. I loved that things weren’t overcomplicated, I loved that it didn’t try hard to be something bigger than it was. A simple story is good for the heart and that was this.
- The small pieces of magic and fairy tale like elements aided the story. This was a fun twist on a story that would have other wise been categorized as a simple women’s fiction / suspense novel.
- I enjoyed the feeling of facing grief/ coming home / found family / finding your place in life vibes. I love a character down on their luck and being able to watch their journey through hard times.
- The back stories were very compelling, nostalgic and emotional. It made me feel for the characters in a deeper way. It also gave the story some stormy sky feelings which I really loved.
⭐️ What kept this from a full five?
- I wanted more Leandro. Plain and simple. I loved every thing he was a part of and I wish he was in it a little more than he was. I didn’t go into this expecting a romance but because Leandro was so brilliant, it left a chill when he wasn’t around.
- I found that the interactions between characters were choppy throughout the book. I just didn’t love the dialogue and couldn’t fully sink into a scene or conversation before it was ripped away too quickly. The richest parts of the writing were when main character Gwen was on her own, interestingly enough. I would have loved some longer lasting dialogues or to be able to stay in a moment for a little longer.
⭐️ Overall, this was such a refreshing read. I tore through this. I recommend this for a rainy week during the summer. For a time when you want to relax and read something simple but also don’t want fluffy and light.
January 12, 2025
***Thank you to NetGalley, Simon & Schuster, & the author for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I need time to really think before deciding on what to rate this one because it was beautifully written, but I never felt fully invested or captivated by the story. It felt like too much was going on at all times. There were so many characters, and none of them were very well developed in my opinion, mostly because I couldn’t picture them in my head or tell them apart for a while there. I couldn’t figure out friend or foe either for most of the story, but I think that may have been the point?!
I’m actually a fan of the paranormal, and I really enjoyed the sprinkles of that thrown in amongst the chaos of this book. I looked forward to it, and I almost wish there was a hint more depth to it. I wanted more of Anna’s story, and I actually wanted to hear more about the Misses!!! I just wanted more from this! It was exciting, and I was waiting for Molly the entire book…
I am not sure if it was the TINY font on my phone reading this arc or the story itself that kept me bobbing for (let’s just keep it clean here) apples…I nodded off almost every time I picked this arc up. I felt like it took me forever to finish, and it was not a long story at all. The last 20% I did not want to put down…
***possible spoilers?!? Don’t read beyond this if you are like me & never read the back of the book first lol…
Once Hugh’s true nature was discovered I was horrified. I knew something was up with all the hints dropped, but if all of these supporting characters were truly friends of Gwen’s…how did this happen?! It was too easy & too annoying for me. I felt so confused how no one warned her about him knowing she was spending time and knowing how he truly was. SHOCKED!
That ending is what has me really wanting to leave four stars. I just don’t think I can ultimately because the entire story as a whole was three stars for me. It was good!! I just wouldn’t read it again personally or run to tell everyone I know about it either. I did feel that it was a beautifully written story, and I genuinely enjoyed it. The ending was 4.5 stars, but the book was 2-3 for me, so I’m leaving 3.7 stars for this one as a whole. I will absolutely pick up her next book!!
I need time to really think before deciding on what to rate this one because it was beautifully written, but I never felt fully invested or captivated by the story. It felt like too much was going on at all times. There were so many characters, and none of them were very well developed in my opinion, mostly because I couldn’t picture them in my head or tell them apart for a while there. I couldn’t figure out friend or foe either for most of the story, but I think that may have been the point?!
I’m actually a fan of the paranormal, and I really enjoyed the sprinkles of that thrown in amongst the chaos of this book. I looked forward to it, and I almost wish there was a hint more depth to it. I wanted more of Anna’s story, and I actually wanted to hear more about the Misses!!! I just wanted more from this! It was exciting, and I was waiting for Molly the entire book…
I am not sure if it was the TINY font on my phone reading this arc or the story itself that kept me bobbing for (let’s just keep it clean here) apples…I nodded off almost every time I picked this arc up. I felt like it took me forever to finish, and it was not a long story at all. The last 20% I did not want to put down…
***possible spoilers?!? Don’t read beyond this if you are like me & never read the back of the book first lol…
Once Hugh’s true nature was discovered I was horrified. I knew something was up with all the hints dropped, but if all of these supporting characters were truly friends of Gwen’s…how did this happen?! It was too easy & too annoying for me. I felt so confused how no one warned her about him knowing she was spending time and knowing how he truly was. SHOCKED!
That ending is what has me really wanting to leave four stars. I just don’t think I can ultimately because the entire story as a whole was three stars for me. It was good!! I just wouldn’t read it again personally or run to tell everyone I know about it either. I did feel that it was a beautifully written story, and I genuinely enjoyed it. The ending was 4.5 stars, but the book was 2-3 for me, so I’m leaving 3.7 stars for this one as a whole. I will absolutely pick up her next book!!
July 5, 2025
3.5⭐️
Thank you @simonbooks @simon.audio for the free copy♡₊˚⊹
🦞 A love letter to port towns in Maine, to artists, and to healing after loss and grief.
.
If you like the small town stories, where the pace of life is slower, where everyone knows your name, where folks pitch in to help their neighbors, this is for you.
.
You’ll know who you’re supposed to root for, and who is not here for the right reasons. So, despite the predictability there is a comfort. There’s also a slow blooming romance and artistry in the writing.
.
🌊 The mysticism of the sea and its creatures contributes to the charm and magic of the setting. I particularly enjoyed the 🦭seals and the enchanting yet perilous allure of open water.
.
On the other hand, the ghosts of Periwinkle cottage had so small a role that I’d have just as soon had them written out.
.
▶︎ •၊၊||၊|။||။|• My preference on this one was written format. Audio was not bad, just not as much a standout as some others.
🐚 A charming, slower paced debut to pick up when you’re in the mood for a comforting, feel good read.
“You know what they say, don’t you? That wherever you go, you take yourself.”
Thank you @simonbooks @simon.audio for the free copy♡₊˚⊹
🦞 A love letter to port towns in Maine, to artists, and to healing after loss and grief.
.
If you like the small town stories, where the pace of life is slower, where everyone knows your name, where folks pitch in to help their neighbors, this is for you.
.
You’ll know who you’re supposed to root for, and who is not here for the right reasons. So, despite the predictability there is a comfort. There’s also a slow blooming romance and artistry in the writing.
.
🌊 The mysticism of the sea and its creatures contributes to the charm and magic of the setting. I particularly enjoyed the 🦭seals and the enchanting yet perilous allure of open water.
.
On the other hand, the ghosts of Periwinkle cottage had so small a role that I’d have just as soon had them written out.
.
▶︎ •၊၊||၊|။||။|• My preference on this one was written format. Audio was not bad, just not as much a standout as some others.
🐚 A charming, slower paced debut to pick up when you’re in the mood for a comforting, feel good read.
“You know what they say, don’t you? That wherever you go, you take yourself.”
February 25, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
I was thankful to have been asked to read this debut novel so I could give my opinions on it.
It took me a bit to get through as there was something missing for me.
Lit fiction is such a unique category at times as it can be a catch all for various genres and I think that’s why I struggled as it had a little bit of everything but nothing felt like it was satisfying in the end.
I still rounded it up to 4⭐️ as I think some will absolutely love it as the prose is beautiful. It’s very descriptive, sometimes overly, in bringing the Maine scenery to life. The magical realism of the ghost mentions were great.. but again, it felt unfinished as I wanted more.
I think this book may be a great read for book clubs as there is a lot to discuss!
The book comes out on July 1, 2025 from Simon and Schuster.
I was thankful to have been asked to read this debut novel so I could give my opinions on it.
It took me a bit to get through as there was something missing for me.
Lit fiction is such a unique category at times as it can be a catch all for various genres and I think that’s why I struggled as it had a little bit of everything but nothing felt like it was satisfying in the end.
I still rounded it up to 4⭐️ as I think some will absolutely love it as the prose is beautiful. It’s very descriptive, sometimes overly, in bringing the Maine scenery to life. The magical realism of the ghost mentions were great.. but again, it felt unfinished as I wanted more.
I think this book may be a great read for book clubs as there is a lot to discuss!
The book comes out on July 1, 2025 from Simon and Schuster.
October 15, 2025
Reading this book will make you want to book a trip to Maine immediately. The author’s beautiful writing style and detailed descriptions of the coastal Maine setting, complete with a gray-washed cottage and lighthouse, transported me to the New England coastal town of Port Anna. The main character, Gwen, now in her forties, returns to Periwinkle—her family’s coastal cottage—after leaving Port Anna more than 20 years ago. She’s lost her mother, her boyfriend broke up with her, and she was fired from her job, so seeking a fresh start, she heads to the cottage she inherited. Once there, she’s welcomed by the cottages’ friendly ghosts—yes, ghosts—as well as old friends, a new love interest, and feelings of guilt and devastating sadness as memories of her sister’s drowning, which happened many years ago, come flooding back. This is a nostalgic story with a touch of magical realism; it’s a story about coming home, starting over, and found family. If you enjoy emotional, atmospheric, nostalgic novels that feel like a warm hug, this one is for you.
July 2, 2025
This debut novel tells the story of Gwen, a woman in her forties who heads back to her family’s cottage in the made-up coastal town of Port Anna after hitting a rough patch in life. I liked the book, but there was just a lot going on. So many different stories happening at the same time, I honestly couldn't tell what the main plot was supposed to be. Tons of characters introduced pretty fast too, and I wasn’t sure which side stories I was meant to focus on. Still, I enjoyed it overall. It was a light, fast read.
May 6, 2025
I was chosen as a reader for THE FIRST NOVEL PRIZE sponsored by the Center for Fiction and I received this ARC in exchange for an honest evaluation. Actually 3 1/2 stars. Gwen Gilmore has returned home to the family shack in Maine after her adult life has fallen apart. She reconnects with old friends, realizing that relationships are not static and friends, once close, are now not speaking. She slowly rebuilds her life, but continues to make immature decisions. I found her frustrating, but ultimately likeable. A plus is Libby Buck's description of the Maine coastline over the course of almost a year.
dnf
August 8, 2025Admittedly Port Anna was not on my "to be read" list but it showed up in my mailbox (Simon giveaway win) so I gave it a shot.
Ghosts, an aloof love interest, and "forgotten creative dreams" aren't typically for me. I was interested in a small-town coastal tale, but to be honest I set this one down and just never picked it back up. (DNF at 12%)
I think this will be a better fit with more frequent readers of women's fiction, those into stories about a woman slowly finding her way.
Ghosts, an aloof love interest, and "forgotten creative dreams" aren't typically for me. I was interested in a small-town coastal tale, but to be honest I set this one down and just never picked it back up. (DNF at 12%)
I think this will be a better fit with more frequent readers of women's fiction, those into stories about a woman slowly finding her way.
August 3, 2025
This book wasn’t what I thought it’d be, but it was great nonetheless. In my view, this is a tale of gaining personal and emotional freedom while doling out grace where it’s deserved.
August 5, 2025
Port Anna is a thoughtful and emotional read. The topics of grief & financial instability were relatable and the supernatural aspect helped give the story a melancholy vibe that I loved. The characters are fabulous and all have a valuable role in the story. The setting of the coast of Maine is a favorite of mine to read about, as it is where I was born and raised. The ending all comes together well and leaves you feeling cozy and contented.
Read
September 3, 2025Bored to tears would be kind. No tears shed.
December 17, 2024
Given the inclusion of ghost story elements, I had anticipated a more suspenseful narrative. While the character development was commendable, the plot appeared to lack a key component to thoroughly draw me in.
November 30, 2024
I love books set in Maine so I was very excited to receive an ARC of this debut novel set in fictional Port Anna, Maine. When her life as a professor in North Carolina falls apart, Gwen heads home to Maine to live in her family’s abandoned beach cottage. While there she must face the demons that forced her to leave and rebuild a new life with a found family. I really enjoyed this novel and look forward to reading more from Libby Buck in the future!
October 10, 2025
I am in love with this debut novel! It could not have been a better fit for me. I love Maine, we visit multiple times a year and I love getting lost in one of the small coastal towns. The fewer tourists the better, even if I am one. Libby Buck caught the essence of Maine. I could smell the salty tang of the ocean, hear the smashing waves, the ocean mist slowly coating my skin. The descriptions and the details are spot on and the story that comes along with it has settled into my soul.
Gwen Gilmore has reached the bottom. She has nowhere left to go but north to her family's old cottage along the coast in Port Anna. Gwen is haunted by memories that last summer they were there, the summer that changed her family forever. As soon as she steps in, she is greeted by the Missies, the ghosts that reside in Periwinkle. They love to have their presence known by slamming cupboards, thumping around, or going completely silent. Port Anna is a small town, and gossip moves faster than the rising tide. By the time Gwen heads to the store, everyone knows she is back. Her friends are still there, some have changed for the better, others for the worse. I found myself yelling at her not to trust and to listen to what people are not saying. As winter begins to set in and uninsulated Periwinkle becomes a challenge. Will Gwen be able to survive the winter and keep her family's cottage?
This one left me with all the feels. The characters were relatable. The situation occurring in Maine along the seacoast is something that is currently happening in Vermont. Second homes are popping up where small family homes used to be. Ripped down to build mansions, where people visit maybe once a year. The struggle is real to find a job and to be able to afford a home. I loved how the story weaved from the present day to Gwen's younger years, and to the day the Missies broke ground. If you love Maine or have always wanted to visit, get your hands on this book! Thank you to Libby Buck and Simon and Schuster for my gifted copy.
Gwen Gilmore has reached the bottom. She has nowhere left to go but north to her family's old cottage along the coast in Port Anna. Gwen is haunted by memories that last summer they were there, the summer that changed her family forever. As soon as she steps in, she is greeted by the Missies, the ghosts that reside in Periwinkle. They love to have their presence known by slamming cupboards, thumping around, or going completely silent. Port Anna is a small town, and gossip moves faster than the rising tide. By the time Gwen heads to the store, everyone knows she is back. Her friends are still there, some have changed for the better, others for the worse. I found myself yelling at her not to trust and to listen to what people are not saying. As winter begins to set in and uninsulated Periwinkle becomes a challenge. Will Gwen be able to survive the winter and keep her family's cottage?
This one left me with all the feels. The characters were relatable. The situation occurring in Maine along the seacoast is something that is currently happening in Vermont. Second homes are popping up where small family homes used to be. Ripped down to build mansions, where people visit maybe once a year. The struggle is real to find a job and to be able to afford a home. I loved how the story weaved from the present day to Gwen's younger years, and to the day the Missies broke ground. If you love Maine or have always wanted to visit, get your hands on this book! Thank you to Libby Buck and Simon and Schuster for my gifted copy.
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