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The Last Poem: A Novel
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Expected 3 Mar 26Win a free kindle copy of this book!
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20 copies available
U.S. only
From international bestselling author Courtney Peppernell comes
The Last Poem
, a heartfelt exploration of grief that follows celebrated poet Wren Paisley as she escapes to a new town where no one knows the life she is running from as she hopes to grieve the unexpected loss of her fiancee, find healing, and maybe even learn to love again.
Bestselling poet B.W. Paisley is grief-stricken and lost when her sun-kissed life is turned upside down by the unexpected loss of her fiancee, Lucy, in a fatal car crash that left a young bystander paralyzed. Unable to escape the media frenzy that swarms the brownstone they once shared, she drives across the country until she hits Everston, Colorado, a town she's never visited but feels unexplainably pulled to. Everston is charming, the people are kind, and, most importantly, no one knows who she is. Deciding to start anew, she changes her name, cuts her hair, and takes up residence in a crumbling old Victorian house, determined to renovate both the house and herself from the ground up.
It feels fortuitous – and a little dangerous – when she learns that the local library holds a weekly grief support group that reads, of all things, poetry. Hesitantly, she joins and slowly begins to build community with the other members, including Henry, a librarian mourning the loss of his brother, Emerson; a young woman recovering from a traumatic accident; and Olivia, a grieving reporter who gives her butterflies. Finally, she can breathe again.
But not for long.
As she grows closer to new friends and a possible new love, her past comes barreling back into focus. How long can she keep her old life in the rearview? Will she be able to build a new life in Everston, or will it all come crashing down when the truth finally comes to light?
Bestselling poet B.W. Paisley is grief-stricken and lost when her sun-kissed life is turned upside down by the unexpected loss of her fiancee, Lucy, in a fatal car crash that left a young bystander paralyzed. Unable to escape the media frenzy that swarms the brownstone they once shared, she drives across the country until she hits Everston, Colorado, a town she's never visited but feels unexplainably pulled to. Everston is charming, the people are kind, and, most importantly, no one knows who she is. Deciding to start anew, she changes her name, cuts her hair, and takes up residence in a crumbling old Victorian house, determined to renovate both the house and herself from the ground up.
It feels fortuitous – and a little dangerous – when she learns that the local library holds a weekly grief support group that reads, of all things, poetry. Hesitantly, she joins and slowly begins to build community with the other members, including Henry, a librarian mourning the loss of his brother, Emerson; a young woman recovering from a traumatic accident; and Olivia, a grieving reporter who gives her butterflies. Finally, she can breathe again.
But not for long.
As she grows closer to new friends and a possible new love, her past comes barreling back into focus. How long can she keep her old life in the rearview? Will she be able to build a new life in Everston, or will it all come crashing down when the truth finally comes to light?
400 pages, Paperback
Expected publication March 3, 2026
4336 people want to read
About the author
Courtney Peppernell
36 books3,297 followersCourtney Peppernell is an acclaimed best-selling author from Australia, celebrated for her inspirational poetry collections, including the beloved Pillow Thoughts series, Watering the Soul, I Hope You Stay, Time Will Tell and more. With over two million sales worldwide, she continues to lead the forefront of today’s poetry genre. Courtney spends her days writing and working on many projects with her beloved dogs and chickens in tow. She hopes to continue exploring expression and the art of healing through stories, novels and poetry for years to come. Stay tuned for the latest releases from Courtney and her team!
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 24, 2026
Firstly thank you to Netgalley and simonandschuster for approving me to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.
The last poem is a novel written in dual pov that follows a set of characters in their journey through grief and all its facets. They each come together for a grief group thats held at the library on Tuesdays in the close knit town of Everston with its colourful buildings, beautiful skies and its perfect small town feeling.
Wren the beautifully written poet, Olivia the caring reporter that asks the right questions, Henry the librarian that is always giving, Winnie the wonderfully wise humorous friend, Emerson the ex gymnast that loves poetry and Gill the thoughtful widower that is helpful are just some of the many characters in this novel i adored.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the last poem because it explores grief in such a deep and thoughtful way, through the poems, the experiences, the newfound family after tragic loss, overcoming hurdles and making changes for healing. There were many times whilst reading this novel i had tears in my eyes and i think many people in all walks of life can take things written in this novel and carry it with them. Highly recommend.
The last poem is a novel written in dual pov that follows a set of characters in their journey through grief and all its facets. They each come together for a grief group thats held at the library on Tuesdays in the close knit town of Everston with its colourful buildings, beautiful skies and its perfect small town feeling.
Wren the beautifully written poet, Olivia the caring reporter that asks the right questions, Henry the librarian that is always giving, Winnie the wonderfully wise humorous friend, Emerson the ex gymnast that loves poetry and Gill the thoughtful widower that is helpful are just some of the many characters in this novel i adored.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the last poem because it explores grief in such a deep and thoughtful way, through the poems, the experiences, the newfound family after tragic loss, overcoming hurdles and making changes for healing. There were many times whilst reading this novel i had tears in my eyes and i think many people in all walks of life can take things written in this novel and carry it with them. Highly recommend.
November 17, 2025
The Last Poem is a moving story which explores grief, in all its shapes and forms, and learning to love again.
Written from multiple character perspectives, to begin with I struggled to get into the story. However, by the end I was gripped and did two long sittings to finish the book! Equally heart warming and heart-breaking, I would highly recommend this book to everyone! The ending... very wholesome. I look forward to explore more of Courtney Peppernell's work.
Thank you to author, publisher and NetGalley for the copy of this book!
Written from multiple character perspectives, to begin with I struggled to get into the story. However, by the end I was gripped and did two long sittings to finish the book! Equally heart warming and heart-breaking, I would highly recommend this book to everyone! The ending... very wholesome. I look forward to explore more of Courtney Peppernell's work.
Thank you to author, publisher and NetGalley for the copy of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I devoured this novel.
The Last Poem is a beautiful exploration of grief, community, and how poetry touches the heart. It is written beautifully and with such warmth - which perhaps might be unsurprising from an author who is also a poet! This was a really heartfelt and tender novel; I had tears rolling more times than I could keep track of. It deals with some difficult topics, but does so with such gentleness that it makes it easy to turn to the next chapter again and again. It is, in my opinion, the perfect book to curl up to read with a cuppa.
As someone who has dealt with grief after the onset of disability, I so deeply appreciated the acknowledgement that grief doesn't only arrive after the death of a loved one - it arrives as a result of many varied circumstances. This book included characters grieving due to loss of ability, dementia, death, difficulty falling pregnant, and more, and this inclusively means that almost anyone should be able to find a little bit of themselves and their own story in these pages.
"Grief, as it happened, was not a linear thing; it didn't follow a clear line from start to finish, rather it pivoted and curved like a winding road through the mountains."
The way the characters in the grief support group spoke to each other was so compassionate and understanding, and in my opinion, deeply healing for any reader who has experienced life-altering grief. These are the kinds of people I need my life! Not only were the cast of characters diverse in their grief, but diverse in ages and life experiences, and included a fair few queer characters too. The book is told from multiple POVs, so you get a taste of what each person is going through.
This book is a love letter to poetry. It speaks to the way that poetry can reach into your chest and touch your heart in the most difficult of times. It has me excited to pick up my next poetry collection! The book includes a handful of poetry excerpts throughout the story, and ends with a collection of important poems that were involved in the plot but unwritten during the story (and I was hungry for these by that point!).
I haven't read any Courtney's Peppernell poetry before, but I would like to now (and a little internet stalking tells me she should be coming out with a new poetry collection later this year)!
My only gripe was that one particular grief-group member's response at the climax of the book felt a bit out of character - but fortunately this was resolved quite quickly, and the other characters' responses felt very authentic.
The Last Poem really touched my heart, and I'm so glad I picked it up. I think it would make a beautiful gift to a loved one (or indeed, to yourself).
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Australia and Netgalley for an advance review copy of this novel. This is my genuine opinion.
The Last Poem is a beautiful exploration of grief, community, and how poetry touches the heart. It is written beautifully and with such warmth - which perhaps might be unsurprising from an author who is also a poet! This was a really heartfelt and tender novel; I had tears rolling more times than I could keep track of. It deals with some difficult topics, but does so with such gentleness that it makes it easy to turn to the next chapter again and again. It is, in my opinion, the perfect book to curl up to read with a cuppa.
As someone who has dealt with grief after the onset of disability, I so deeply appreciated the acknowledgement that grief doesn't only arrive after the death of a loved one - it arrives as a result of many varied circumstances. This book included characters grieving due to loss of ability, dementia, death, difficulty falling pregnant, and more, and this inclusively means that almost anyone should be able to find a little bit of themselves and their own story in these pages.
"Grief, as it happened, was not a linear thing; it didn't follow a clear line from start to finish, rather it pivoted and curved like a winding road through the mountains."
The way the characters in the grief support group spoke to each other was so compassionate and understanding, and in my opinion, deeply healing for any reader who has experienced life-altering grief. These are the kinds of people I need my life! Not only were the cast of characters diverse in their grief, but diverse in ages and life experiences, and included a fair few queer characters too. The book is told from multiple POVs, so you get a taste of what each person is going through.
This book is a love letter to poetry. It speaks to the way that poetry can reach into your chest and touch your heart in the most difficult of times. It has me excited to pick up my next poetry collection! The book includes a handful of poetry excerpts throughout the story, and ends with a collection of important poems that were involved in the plot but unwritten during the story (and I was hungry for these by that point!).
I haven't read any Courtney's Peppernell poetry before, but I would like to now (and a little internet stalking tells me she should be coming out with a new poetry collection later this year)!
My only gripe was that one particular grief-group member's response at the climax of the book felt a bit out of character - but fortunately this was resolved quite quickly, and the other characters' responses felt very authentic.
The Last Poem really touched my heart, and I'm so glad I picked it up. I think it would make a beautiful gift to a loved one (or indeed, to yourself).
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Australia and Netgalley for an advance review copy of this novel. This is my genuine opinion.
January 4, 2026
Super grateful to Simon & Schuster for a NetGalley ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The premise sounded really interesting but the book itself exceeded all my expectations.
Told through multiple POVs this story is a beautiful exploration of grief, identity, love and friendship. Both a beautiful character study and a moving plot with subplots adding to the beauty of the story.
I read this book in one day and loved it.
The premise sounded really interesting but the book itself exceeded all my expectations.
Told through multiple POVs this story is a beautiful exploration of grief, identity, love and friendship. Both a beautiful character study and a moving plot with subplots adding to the beauty of the story.
I read this book in one day and loved it.
November 3, 2025
I had the privilege of receiving an ARC for this book. I rate it 5 stars.
Some readers may find the theme of this book confronting and triggering. So, please proceed with caution. It is about loss and how it comes in different sizes and shapes. It is about grief and how it comes in waves, in different forms and in different moments. This book is about the perspectives of very different people and how they handle their loss and their grief in their own ways.
More importantly, this book is about found family and healing. On finding your way after the pain and gathering the broken pieces together. Of rising from the ashes.
The narration was easy to understand, making this book a straightforward read. The descriptive writing allowed me to recreate the town, people and scenarios in my head. The characters are ordinary people who could be a neighbour, a friend or someone you meet at the bus stop while you wait for the next bus. Ordinary people with ordinary lives, handling their grief and their guilt as best as they can with the help of people who understand their pain.
The overall progression of the story was slow and smooth, although I found the last few chapters more fast-paced in comparison. The buildup of the conclusion felt somewhat rushed before returning to the slower pace at the end.
This is a book that should be in your TBR list, even if you have yet to experience loss and grief, because it gives readers a perspective on the journey to healing and acceptance.
Thank you, Courtney, for this beautiful and heartfelt literature. This is something that will stay with me for a very long time.
Some readers may find the theme of this book confronting and triggering. So, please proceed with caution. It is about loss and how it comes in different sizes and shapes. It is about grief and how it comes in waves, in different forms and in different moments. This book is about the perspectives of very different people and how they handle their loss and their grief in their own ways.
More importantly, this book is about found family and healing. On finding your way after the pain and gathering the broken pieces together. Of rising from the ashes.
The narration was easy to understand, making this book a straightforward read. The descriptive writing allowed me to recreate the town, people and scenarios in my head. The characters are ordinary people who could be a neighbour, a friend or someone you meet at the bus stop while you wait for the next bus. Ordinary people with ordinary lives, handling their grief and their guilt as best as they can with the help of people who understand their pain.
The overall progression of the story was slow and smooth, although I found the last few chapters more fast-paced in comparison. The buildup of the conclusion felt somewhat rushed before returning to the slower pace at the end.
This is a book that should be in your TBR list, even if you have yet to experience loss and grief, because it gives readers a perspective on the journey to healing and acceptance.
Thank you, Courtney, for this beautiful and heartfelt literature. This is something that will stay with me for a very long time.
dnf-d
November 14, 2025Thank you to the publisher for the opportunity to read The Last Poem. I DNF’d at 41%. The writing style didn’t fully connect with me — there was more telling than showing, which made it hard for me to become immersed in the characters. The multiple POV structure also didn’t work for me personally. With so many perspectives, the emotional connection felt spread thin, and I struggled to be fully invested in the characters’ journeys. The frequent narrator shifts interrupted the pacing and made the story feel a bit scattered, especially with such heavy themes of grief. Because the voices weren’t very distinct, the perspectives blended together rather than standing out in meaningful ways.
That said, I appreciated the different explorations of grief and the intention behind giving each character their own outlook on loss. While this book wasn’t the right fit for me, I believe readers who enjoy multi-POV stories centered on grief may connect with it more deeply.
That said, I appreciated the different explorations of grief and the intention behind giving each character their own outlook on loss. While this book wasn’t the right fit for me, I believe readers who enjoy multi-POV stories centered on grief may connect with it more deeply.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
“Grief wasn’t just about what you lose, it was also about what you find.”
“I have always tried to find the answers for people, because that’s just what librarians do. We search, we find, and we deliver.”
This book is going to be a favourite of 2026. It was so beautiful, moving and heart warming.
Wren is a writer and a poet, who after a horrible tragedy moves to a lovely small town to escape all the media. She discovers that the local library hosts a grief support group and decides to join.
Everyone in this group is grieving in some way, and they all support each other and become wonderful friends. They find their way out of the darkness together. They learn to grieve but to keep moving as well.
I absolutely loved this novel. I cannot put into words how much I adored this book. It’s a story about grief written in the most beautiful way. I loved that this has a thread of poetry throughout it, it was a nice touch.
I loved that one of the central areas was a library, and Henry our librarian is just the sweetest human in the world. It’s a humble little community with wholesome people. The characters were fabulous, but Winnie and Henry were my favourites.
This book is about grief, new beginnings,reinventing yourself, new friendships, new love, loss and heart break. There’s also a bit of a mystery which I also enjoyed.
I thought a book about grief was going to be too sad for me, but it wasn’t. The way it was written, was tender and beautiful. Just perfect. I highly recommend this gem.
“It’s ok to care but it isn’t your job to fix everything.”
Thank you so much @atriabooksaus for this early copy.
“I have always tried to find the answers for people, because that’s just what librarians do. We search, we find, and we deliver.”
This book is going to be a favourite of 2026. It was so beautiful, moving and heart warming.
Wren is a writer and a poet, who after a horrible tragedy moves to a lovely small town to escape all the media. She discovers that the local library hosts a grief support group and decides to join.
Everyone in this group is grieving in some way, and they all support each other and become wonderful friends. They find their way out of the darkness together. They learn to grieve but to keep moving as well.
I absolutely loved this novel. I cannot put into words how much I adored this book. It’s a story about grief written in the most beautiful way. I loved that this has a thread of poetry throughout it, it was a nice touch.
I loved that one of the central areas was a library, and Henry our librarian is just the sweetest human in the world. It’s a humble little community with wholesome people. The characters were fabulous, but Winnie and Henry were my favourites.
This book is about grief, new beginnings,reinventing yourself, new friendships, new love, loss and heart break. There’s also a bit of a mystery which I also enjoyed.
I thought a book about grief was going to be too sad for me, but it wasn’t. The way it was written, was tender and beautiful. Just perfect. I highly recommend this gem.
“It’s ok to care but it isn’t your job to fix everything.”
Thank you so much @atriabooksaus for this early copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Last Poem by Courtney Peppernell
5✨
First of all, I wanted to thank NetGalley and Andrew McMeels Publishing for the opportunity to read an eARC of The Last Poem.
I recommend this book if you:
🔹enjoy novels with a large cast of diverse characters who are relatable, vulnerable, and flawed.
🔹 enjoy novels that explore the many facets of grief and the struggles one experiences in the aftermath of loss.
🔹enjoy literature and pieces that explore the power of literature being a vehicle for humanity to cope and heal.
I gravitated towards this novel immediately upon seeing the author’s name. I recognized it from the many poems that I have read of hers. I remember always enjoying how she discussed life so thoughtfully and with such vulnerability. Her captivating style and beautiful prose has culminated into this emotionally devastating novel.
I loved how poetry was a vehicle for the characters to articulate their feelings and heal. The way it was central to each characters growth was so powerful. It speaks to the power of literature to allow us to see from new perspectives and find comfort. I thought how poetry was used to articulate how characters were feelings when they struggled to find the words was particularly impactful.
I want to point out that I read this entire 400 page novel on the small screen of my phone, because that was the only method I could find to read it. The tears and laughs were well worth the amount of squinting I have done today, because yes, I did in fact binge read this in a day. I could not put it down!
5✨
First of all, I wanted to thank NetGalley and Andrew McMeels Publishing for the opportunity to read an eARC of The Last Poem.
I recommend this book if you:
🔹enjoy novels with a large cast of diverse characters who are relatable, vulnerable, and flawed.
🔹 enjoy novels that explore the many facets of grief and the struggles one experiences in the aftermath of loss.
🔹enjoy literature and pieces that explore the power of literature being a vehicle for humanity to cope and heal.
I gravitated towards this novel immediately upon seeing the author’s name. I recognized it from the many poems that I have read of hers. I remember always enjoying how she discussed life so thoughtfully and with such vulnerability. Her captivating style and beautiful prose has culminated into this emotionally devastating novel.
I loved how poetry was a vehicle for the characters to articulate their feelings and heal. The way it was central to each characters growth was so powerful. It speaks to the power of literature to allow us to see from new perspectives and find comfort. I thought how poetry was used to articulate how characters were feelings when they struggled to find the words was particularly impactful.
I want to point out that I read this entire 400 page novel on the small screen of my phone, because that was the only method I could find to read it. The tears and laughs were well worth the amount of squinting I have done today, because yes, I did in fact binge read this in a day. I could not put it down!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As someone on their own journey with grief and trying to figure out how it fits in my life, this book struck a lot of nerves (in a positive way). The Last Poem reminded me that we can grieve so many different things, from the loss of a loved one to the life you thought you’d have, and anything in between. It also reiterated that healing isn’t linear. It’s been three years since I lost my dad and I still have days that it’s a struggle to reimagine the rest of my life without him. I will spend more time on this earth without him than I had with him. But through these characters I’m reminded that his impact will always be with me and I don’t need to hold onto the pain to keep him. In fact, holding onto the positive, happier memories will keep his spirit stronger.
Courtney Peppernell’s first language is poetry and that remains clear throughout this novel. I love that she doesn’t try to recreate her writing style, rather she embraces everything that makes her a talented poet and uses it to add depth to her characters, their journeys, and their emotions.
I think anyone who has had to learn, or is learning to, fit grief into their life should read this book!
✨ Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and, of course, Courtney Peppernell for allowing me to read this ARC!
Courtney Peppernell’s first language is poetry and that remains clear throughout this novel. I love that she doesn’t try to recreate her writing style, rather she embraces everything that makes her a talented poet and uses it to add depth to her characters, their journeys, and their emotions.
I think anyone who has had to learn, or is learning to, fit grief into their life should read this book!
✨ Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and, of course, Courtney Peppernell for allowing me to read this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The Last Poem is a heartfelt and emotional look at grief and loss. Courtney Peppernell writes about such a heavy topic with a lot of honesty and grace, making it feel deeply personal and real.
This book doesn’t shy away from the messy parts of grief. You really feel everything alongside the characters - the sadness, the confusion, and the lingering ache that comes with loss.
The small-town setting and found-family elements add a sense of warmth and comfort that balances out the heavier moments, making the story feel both grounding and healing.
I adored all of the side characters - particularly Henry and Emerson - and I hope we hear their stories in future books.
The writing style is gentle, steady-paced and suits the topic perfectly.
As someone who, like most, has been touched deeply by loss, I found great comfort in the message that healing does not mean forgetting but learning to live alongside the pain.
The Last Poem is a book that stays with you for a very long time.
Many thanks to Simon and Schuster AU, Atria Books AUS and Courtney Peppernell for the physical ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book doesn’t shy away from the messy parts of grief. You really feel everything alongside the characters - the sadness, the confusion, and the lingering ache that comes with loss.
The small-town setting and found-family elements add a sense of warmth and comfort that balances out the heavier moments, making the story feel both grounding and healing.
I adored all of the side characters - particularly Henry and Emerson - and I hope we hear their stories in future books.
The writing style is gentle, steady-paced and suits the topic perfectly.
As someone who, like most, has been touched deeply by loss, I found great comfort in the message that healing does not mean forgetting but learning to live alongside the pain.
The Last Poem is a book that stays with you for a very long time.
Many thanks to Simon and Schuster AU, Atria Books AUS and Courtney Peppernell for the physical ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Big thanks to Simon & Schuster for sending us a copy to read and review.
When a smooth sailing and perfect life hits turbulence, emotions fly like a jar of sweets landing on the floor.
The shatter causing an impact, leaving the pieces to pick up.
Wren flees her life after a tragic car crash kills her partner.
The poetry of life unfolds.
Wren is a successful author.
The death of Lucy turned life upside down and escape is the best way to deal with it.
Ending up in a small town in Colorado she finds an equilibrium that helps her settle into the quieter life and one that offers purpose.
Joining a grief group is healing and beneficial to the other members.
They have no idea that the famous poet and author is amongst their midst.
Exposure, loss, love and the benefits of a small town all play a part in recovery and reiterate the journey of life has its ups and downs.
A beautiful story that shows grief is a part of life and that letting people in can help heal the heart.
Loved the concept of an author living incognito and seeing her books on her new friend’s shelves.
A binding reiteration that readers and writers are fabulous people.
When a smooth sailing and perfect life hits turbulence, emotions fly like a jar of sweets landing on the floor.
The shatter causing an impact, leaving the pieces to pick up.
Wren flees her life after a tragic car crash kills her partner.
The poetry of life unfolds.
Wren is a successful author.
The death of Lucy turned life upside down and escape is the best way to deal with it.
Ending up in a small town in Colorado she finds an equilibrium that helps her settle into the quieter life and one that offers purpose.
Joining a grief group is healing and beneficial to the other members.
They have no idea that the famous poet and author is amongst their midst.
Exposure, loss, love and the benefits of a small town all play a part in recovery and reiterate the journey of life has its ups and downs.
A beautiful story that shows grief is a part of life and that letting people in can help heal the heart.
Loved the concept of an author living incognito and seeing her books on her new friend’s shelves.
A binding reiteration that readers and writers are fabulous people.
December 21, 2025
I received an ARC of this upcoming novel, The Last Poem, and just now, I finished it. To say that I have no words is an understatement; to say that I want to say all the words is an understatement as well. I lost my dad two years ago this September. I feel his loss every day. I talk to my mom twice a day - when I get off work and then again before I go to bed. It’s a habit I started when I came home after staying with her for 5 days after dad left, and I just haven’t stopped doing it. I say all that to say this: I felt seen while reading this book. I could see and hear my mom reflected in these pages. While I have no siblings, I can imagine someone who has lost a sibling, whether to death or the chemical processes of their own brain, would also see themselves. Books are meant to be so much to so many people. That could be an escape, a hope, a mirror, and more.
I feel like I’m rambling. I loved this book. This book is a gift. Thank you for the opportunity to read it.
I feel like I’m rambling. I loved this book. This book is a gift. Thank you for the opportunity to read it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Beautiful Ode to Healing
Rating: ★★★★☆
In her debut novel, Courtney Peppernell masterfully transitions from poetry to prose without losing her signature lyrical touch. The Last Poem is a quiet, poignant exploration of grief following a poet named Wren as she attempts to rebuild her life in a small mountain town after a tragic loss.
The Highlights:
• Atmospheric Writing: Peppernell’s poetic roots shine through in the descriptions of Everston and the internal life of the protagonist.
• Authentic Grief: The story doesn't rush the healing process, making Wren’s journey feel earned and deeply relatable.
• Strong Support Cast: The secondary characters provide a warm, "found family" element that balances the heavy themes of loss.
The Verdict: A must-read for fans of Pillow Thoughts and anyone who has ever turned to words to survive a broken heart. It’s a gentle reminder that while grief never truly leaves us, it does eventually make room for new light.
Rating: ★★★★☆
In her debut novel, Courtney Peppernell masterfully transitions from poetry to prose without losing her signature lyrical touch. The Last Poem is a quiet, poignant exploration of grief following a poet named Wren as she attempts to rebuild her life in a small mountain town after a tragic loss.
The Highlights:
• Atmospheric Writing: Peppernell’s poetic roots shine through in the descriptions of Everston and the internal life of the protagonist.
• Authentic Grief: The story doesn't rush the healing process, making Wren’s journey feel earned and deeply relatable.
• Strong Support Cast: The secondary characters provide a warm, "found family" element that balances the heavy themes of loss.
The Verdict: A must-read for fans of Pillow Thoughts and anyone who has ever turned to words to survive a broken heart. It’s a gentle reminder that while grief never truly leaves us, it does eventually make room for new light.
February 12, 2026
This book felt heavy but comforting at the same time 🤍 I could feel Wren’s grief right away. It’s dramatic, yes, but in a way that makes sense. The kind of grief that makes you want to run somewhere no one knows you and just survive. I understood that feeling immediately.
The writing is simple and honest, which I loved. The poems throughout were beautiful without trying too hard. Nothing felt overly complicated. I also didn’t expect the LGBT romance, but I actually appreciated how gently it unfolded. It never felt forced, and I liked that Olivia was never treated like a replacement. That mattered.
What really stayed with me was the grief support group. The healing felt shared, not just about Wren. This wasn’t just a love story. It was about rebuilding identity after loss.
I did cry near the end 🥺 The grief didn’t disappear, but it softened into acceptance instead of forgetting. There was a slightly rushed moment toward the end, but overall I finished this feeling emotionally full.
The writing is simple and honest, which I loved. The poems throughout were beautiful without trying too hard. Nothing felt overly complicated. I also didn’t expect the LGBT romance, but I actually appreciated how gently it unfolded. It never felt forced, and I liked that Olivia was never treated like a replacement. That mattered.
What really stayed with me was the grief support group. The healing felt shared, not just about Wren. This wasn’t just a love story. It was about rebuilding identity after loss.
I did cry near the end 🥺 The grief didn’t disappear, but it softened into acceptance instead of forgetting. There was a slightly rushed moment toward the end, but overall I finished this feeling emotionally full.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Many thanks to NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
The Last Poem is an emotional and reflective story about loss, healing, and finding your way forward when life no longer looks the way it used to. At its heart, it shows how grief reshapes us—and how new relationships can gently lead us back to hope and love. Courtney Peppernell creates deeply human characters, each carrying their own grief while learning how to exist in a changed world. Their shared vulnerability makes the story feel raw, tender, and sincere.
The beginning of the book was a bit difficult for me to get into, but overall it was a rewarding read. The ending left me emotional, and the story itself is bittersweet, heartfelt, and beautifully told. It definitely made me want to explore more of the author’s work.
The Last Poem is an emotional and reflective story about loss, healing, and finding your way forward when life no longer looks the way it used to. At its heart, it shows how grief reshapes us—and how new relationships can gently lead us back to hope and love. Courtney Peppernell creates deeply human characters, each carrying their own grief while learning how to exist in a changed world. Their shared vulnerability makes the story feel raw, tender, and sincere.
The beginning of the book was a bit difficult for me to get into, but overall it was a rewarding read. The ending left me emotional, and the story itself is bittersweet, heartfelt, and beautifully told. It definitely made me want to explore more of the author’s work.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for providing an eARC of The Last Poem by Courtney Peppernell.
This book was so thoughtfully written and will break you in the best way possible. Told through multiple characters’ perspectives, this book will rip your heart out, break it into pieces, and then mend it back together. A story of grief, loss, love, the power of friendships, finding yourself, and moving forward when you think it isn’t possible. I had never read anything by this author and had never even heard of this book before stumbling across it on NetGalley.
I will be purchasing a copy, re-reading it again very soon, and gifting and recommending this to all of my friends.
This book was so thoughtfully written and will break you in the best way possible. Told through multiple characters’ perspectives, this book will rip your heart out, break it into pieces, and then mend it back together. A story of grief, loss, love, the power of friendships, finding yourself, and moving forward when you think it isn’t possible. I had never read anything by this author and had never even heard of this book before stumbling across it on NetGalley.
I will be purchasing a copy, re-reading it again very soon, and gifting and recommending this to all of my friends.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
With carefully laid out emotions and tons of heart, this is a beautiful read about loss and finding footing to continue again.
This read takes very different individuals, searches through each of their perspectives, and forms a lovely read which remains long after the book is placed down. The characters include a librarian, a reporter, an ex-gymnast, a widower, and a friend. The author does a wonderful job at keeping the voices individual and recognizable to give each one a sense of authenticity. At the same time, the very different directions offer an emotional weave, which dives deep in various ways to bring everything together in a way which touches the heart.
It's a journey of grief, inner-searching, adjustment, and for all things, hope and inspiration.
This read takes very different individuals, searches through each of their perspectives, and forms a lovely read which remains long after the book is placed down. The characters include a librarian, a reporter, an ex-gymnast, a widower, and a friend. The author does a wonderful job at keeping the voices individual and recognizable to give each one a sense of authenticity. At the same time, the very different directions offer an emotional weave, which dives deep in various ways to bring everything together in a way which touches the heart.
It's a journey of grief, inner-searching, adjustment, and for all things, hope and inspiration.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This story beautifully explores the complexity of grief, the fear of losing the life before, and allowing space for growth and change after loss. The Last Poem showcases the randomness of life through complex characters that are easily understood. They are all attempting to find the new version of themself after suffering a loss in their lives and they lean on each other.
Courtney Peppernell weaves a compelling story that kept me interested even though it isn’t one of the genres usually read. I was sad when the story ended but loved the way it concluded.
Received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Courtney Peppernell weaves a compelling story that kept me interested even though it isn’t one of the genres usually read. I was sad when the story ended but loved the way it concluded.
Received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 1, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
The Last Poem explores grief and the journey of learning to love again, focusing on how new connections can help you navigate life after losing someone or something deeply important.
The story is told through multiple POVs, and the beginning was slow and difficult to get into. For me, the first third of the book was the most challenging to get into, while the final third was the most gripping and emotionally engaging.
Overall, the story felt bittersweet, both heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time, and ultimately became a very wholesome and rewarding read.
The Last Poem explores grief and the journey of learning to love again, focusing on how new connections can help you navigate life after losing someone or something deeply important.
The story is told through multiple POVs, and the beginning was slow and difficult to get into. For me, the first third of the book was the most challenging to get into, while the final third was the most gripping and emotionally engaging.
Overall, the story felt bittersweet, both heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time, and ultimately became a very wholesome and rewarding read.
November 9, 2025
I wasn’t expecting something like this when they sent me the book. I have just finished and I am I tears. Happy tears. For a person like me that have known grief very closely, it was a pleasure to read and see how the author show the raw of it. Grief is never easy but this book shows it all: the good, the bad, the hope.
To the author: congrats, it’s the first time I read a book that shows so clearly something sometimes complex.
To readers: be ready to connect with great characters and keep some tissues near.. just in case you get emotional like me.
To the author: congrats, it’s the first time I read a book that shows so clearly something sometimes complex.
To readers: be ready to connect with great characters and keep some tissues near.. just in case you get emotional like me.
October 27, 2025
A beautifully crafted novel about life, loss and finding love again, The Last Poem is the kind of book that both breaks your heart and heals it at the same time. I loved it! The writing is stunning, the pacing is poignant and the characters stay with you long after you finish it.
Brilliant!
Brilliant!
January 27, 2026
An absolutely moving story that I could not put down. I loved the different POVs, their story and how they have dealt with grief. The found family trope and small-town setting were the perfect backdrop to the stories told. I loved this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A poignant novel about loss, grief, and healing, set in a small Colorado mountain town. I love the characters, the story, and the spot-on depiction of how hard it is to grieve. A gem!
Want to read
January 16, 2026OH MY GOD MY QUEEN WROTE US A NOVEL!? MARCH COME FASTER.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks for letting me read and review The Last Poem.
It was okay but confusing at the same time.
It wasn't my cup of tea
It was okay but confusing at the same time.
It wasn't my cup of tea
December 21, 2025
I loved this book.
The story was like a warm hug when I most needed it. The characters were diverse and yet relatable and I truly enjoyed every moment I got to read this book. Easily 5 stars
The story was like a warm hug when I most needed it. The characters were diverse and yet relatable and I truly enjoyed every moment I got to read this book. Easily 5 stars
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