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Loon Point
Not yet published
Expected 27 Jan 269 hours
Set against the rugged beauty of the northern woods, the heartwarming first novel by columnist Carrie Classon explores how chosen family can sweeten bitterness into surprising joy.
Alone in the Northwoods, Norry Last settles in for another springtime lull at the remote resort she inherited from her father. She’s content with the solitude, maybe resigned. But when a blizzard hits, those little cabins by the lake start to fill up fast.
First to arrive is Lizzie, an eight-year-old with resilience and wisdom beyond her years, neglected by a mother struggling with addiction. Next comes Wendell, a cantankerous old fellow whose house collapses in the storm, the same way hope collapsed inside him long before. And then there’s Bud, the helpful handyman who’s always buzzing around, his kindness thawing something Norry thought she’d buried deep in the Minnesota snow.
As white melts to green, The Last Resort’s unlikely companions learn to share space, stories, and quiet comforts—an unexpected family that makes perfect sense. After all, Lizzie needs to be cared for. Wendell needs to care. Norry needs to open up. And Bud? Bud just might fix everything.
Set against the rugged beauty of the northern woods, the heartwarming first novel by columnist Carrie Classon explores how chosen family can sweeten bitterness into surprising joy.
Alone in the Northwoods, Norry Last settles in for another springtime lull at the remote resort she inherited from her father. She’s content with the solitude, maybe resigned. But when a blizzard hits, those little cabins by the lake start to fill up fast.
First to arrive is Lizzie, an eight-year-old with resilience and wisdom beyond her years, neglected by a mother struggling with addiction. Next comes Wendell, a cantankerous old fellow whose house collapses in the storm, the same way hope collapsed inside him long before. And then there’s Bud, the helpful handyman who’s always buzzing around, his kindness thawing something Norry thought she’d buried deep in the Minnesota snow.
As white melts to green, The Last Resort’s unlikely companions learn to share space, stories, and quiet comforts—an unexpected family that makes perfect sense. After all, Lizzie needs to be cared for. Wendell needs to care. Norry needs to open up. And Bud? Bud just might fix everything.
284 pages, Paperback
Expected publication January 27, 2026
232 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Classon
2 books7 followersNationally syndicated columnist, Carrie Classon, writes
The Postscript,
for Andrews McMeel Universal which appears in 200 newspapers nationwide. Carrie champions the idea that it is never too late to reinvent oneself in unexpected and fulfilling ways with her unique brand of honesty, humor, and optimism.
Carrie’s writing addresses the funny and powerful choices that middle-age presents to recreate and reinvent oneself and the necessity of allowing oneself to be ridiculous in the pursuit of a new, more meaningful life. Her memoir, Blue Yarn, tells how Classon took a series of unforeseen catastrophes and used it as the catalyst to begin anew. The Paris News said:
“Classon lays herself bare in a way most of us only dream of doing in personal journals we hope are never read. Blue Yarn is a reminder that we all are adventurers and must follow our paths to wherever they might lead... a joy to read.”
Carrie’s first career was as a professional actor, working in theaters on both coasts. Carrie later received an MBA and worked on infrastructure development projects in Central Asia and West Africa. She received an MFA in creative writing from the University of New Mexico and currently splits her time between St. Paul, Minnesota and San Miguel de Allende, MX with her husband, Peter.
Carrie’s writing addresses the funny and powerful choices that middle-age presents to recreate and reinvent oneself and the necessity of allowing oneself to be ridiculous in the pursuit of a new, more meaningful life. Her memoir, Blue Yarn, tells how Classon took a series of unforeseen catastrophes and used it as the catalyst to begin anew. The Paris News said:
“Classon lays herself bare in a way most of us only dream of doing in personal journals we hope are never read. Blue Yarn is a reminder that we all are adventurers and must follow our paths to wherever they might lead... a joy to read.”
Carrie’s first career was as a professional actor, working in theaters on both coasts. Carrie later received an MBA and worked on infrastructure development projects in Central Asia and West Africa. She received an MFA in creative writing from the University of New Mexico and currently splits her time between St. Paul, Minnesota and San Miguel de Allende, MX with her husband, Peter.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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Norry Last manages the remote resort she inherited when, during a spring blizzard, a bunch of strangers seek shelter in her cabins. The group includes an eight-year-old girl named Lizzie, Wedell, who is a grumpy old man, and Bud the handyman. As the snow starts to melt, these unlikely companions begin to share stories and kindnesses with each other and become somewhat of a chosen family. It also helps them find healing and the strength to move forward.
This is a debut novel I adored. It was a heartwarming story that is set in the northern woods of Minnesota brought to life. The story never loses sight of its optimism, but it also deals with life's hardships. It deals with tough subject matter such as addiction, but focuses more on the power of connection, and I loved the idea of a chosen family for these characters. The feel-good idea that you're never too old for change and it's never too late to reinvent yourself was a surprising joy to read. We could all learn something from these characters—let's just be kind to and take care of each other. This book restored my faith in humanity. This book is beautiful in its way and was a wonderful escape that I can't recommend enough.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
The Book Review Crew Blog
Norry Last manages the remote resort she inherited when, during a spring blizzard, a bunch of strangers seek shelter in her cabins. The group includes an eight-year-old girl named Lizzie, Wedell, who is a grumpy old man, and Bud the handyman. As the snow starts to melt, these unlikely companions begin to share stories and kindnesses with each other and become somewhat of a chosen family. It also helps them find healing and the strength to move forward.
This is a debut novel I adored. It was a heartwarming story that is set in the northern woods of Minnesota brought to life. The story never loses sight of its optimism, but it also deals with life's hardships. It deals with tough subject matter such as addiction, but focuses more on the power of connection, and I loved the idea of a chosen family for these characters. The feel-good idea that you're never too old for change and it's never too late to reinvent yourself was a surprising joy to read. We could all learn something from these characters—let's just be kind to and take care of each other. This book restored my faith in humanity. This book is beautiful in its way and was a wonderful escape that I can't recommend enough.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
December 10, 2025
4.5 stars ⭐️
Postscript columnist Carrie Classon has penned a beautiful DEBUT NOVEL that quietly snuck its way into my heart!
Set in the Northwoods of Minnesota, we meet three main characters whose lives become entwined when a blizzard hits their remote small town.
Norry Last is the big hearted owner of “The Last Resort” a lakefront property that she inherited from her father. Although he expected that she would sell it upon his passing, she has instead been running it for about 10 years now, since divorcing, and she has found contentment in the routine of caring for the eight log cabins which are full during Spring and Summer, and mostly empty all Winter.
Lizzie, an eight-year-old who has recently moved into a dilapidated trailer down the road. It is all that her mother could afford after becoming injured at work, and addicted to pain killers. When her mother doesn’t return home one afternoon, and she finds herself without heat, Lizzie makes her way to the only place she can think of going to for help-“The Last Resort.”
Wendell, is a cantankerous Septuagenarian loner whose house collapses in the storm. Fortunately, his neighbor was able to call for help, and Bud, the town’s handyman, snow plow operator and volunteer firefighter is able to pull him to safety. He asks Norry if she could possibly house Wendall in one of the cabins temporarily, and of course she says yes.
This character driven novel alternates between all THREE perspectives in each chapter, with Bud continuing to demonstrate to each of them what showing up for others really means.
As the weather thaws, their well protected hearts also begin to melt, and they realize that they have become one another’s CHOSEN family.
It was a novel that I always enjoyed picking up, and a novel that is hard to say goodbye to, as I have become fond of spending time with these folks-and I feel sure that you will too!
Expected release date: January 27, 2026.
A buddy read with DeAnn, Marilyn and Mary Beth. Be sure to watch for their amazing reviews.
Thank You to Lake Union publishing for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always these are my candid thoughts.
Postscript columnist Carrie Classon has penned a beautiful DEBUT NOVEL that quietly snuck its way into my heart!
Set in the Northwoods of Minnesota, we meet three main characters whose lives become entwined when a blizzard hits their remote small town.
Norry Last is the big hearted owner of “The Last Resort” a lakefront property that she inherited from her father. Although he expected that she would sell it upon his passing, she has instead been running it for about 10 years now, since divorcing, and she has found contentment in the routine of caring for the eight log cabins which are full during Spring and Summer, and mostly empty all Winter.
Lizzie, an eight-year-old who has recently moved into a dilapidated trailer down the road. It is all that her mother could afford after becoming injured at work, and addicted to pain killers. When her mother doesn’t return home one afternoon, and she finds herself without heat, Lizzie makes her way to the only place she can think of going to for help-“The Last Resort.”
Wendell, is a cantankerous Septuagenarian loner whose house collapses in the storm. Fortunately, his neighbor was able to call for help, and Bud, the town’s handyman, snow plow operator and volunteer firefighter is able to pull him to safety. He asks Norry if she could possibly house Wendall in one of the cabins temporarily, and of course she says yes.
This character driven novel alternates between all THREE perspectives in each chapter, with Bud continuing to demonstrate to each of them what showing up for others really means.
As the weather thaws, their well protected hearts also begin to melt, and they realize that they have become one another’s CHOSEN family.
It was a novel that I always enjoyed picking up, and a novel that is hard to say goodbye to, as I have become fond of spending time with these folks-and I feel sure that you will too!
Expected release date: January 27, 2026.
A buddy read with DeAnn, Marilyn and Mary Beth. Be sure to watch for their amazing reviews.
Thank You to Lake Union publishing for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always these are my candid thoughts.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A lovely character driven book. Norry Last, the owner of Last Resort, Wendell, who is miraculously saved from his neglected house when the roof caves in and Lizzie, an eight year old girl with an addicted mother have all experienced more than their share of loss. This is their story and it could have been a sad one, but instead it's infused with optimism. Bud, a local, and a good Samaritan is a grounding force. Mr Benson, a found dog contributes to creating a loving connection. All of them make for a sweet but not too sweet found family read. The pacing is good and I enjoyed the setting, I know I will continue to think about these characters. and would love to read a sequel.
Many thanks to Netgalley for a chance to read and review an advance copy
Many thanks to Netgalley for a chance to read and review an advance copy
November 3, 2025
Oh my goodness! This story drew out many emotions due to the handful of endearing characters with big hearts. I wanted to hug, cheer and reprimand them at various points throughout. So beautiful!
This is one of those touching stories where you feel like you know the characters (the good, the bad and the ugly) and the setting permeates every page. In this case, you are lakeside in a small town where you can imagine and feel the calm, quiet, sounds of nature and the slower pace of life. It's also a story that you finish the last page and feel like you have been reminded to embrace life, be present and love others. This story and these characters will stick with me for quite some time. It's found family at its finest and it's heartwarming!
Just a little side note...This book deals with addiction, child neglect and thoughts of harm. While it might be hard for some, it is done with a gentle hand.
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing for the advanced digital copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. No matter the season, this is a great read. However, I can only imagine a heightened experience, if you are reading it at a cabin by the lake.
This is one of those touching stories where you feel like you know the characters (the good, the bad and the ugly) and the setting permeates every page. In this case, you are lakeside in a small town where you can imagine and feel the calm, quiet, sounds of nature and the slower pace of life. It's also a story that you finish the last page and feel like you have been reminded to embrace life, be present and love others. This story and these characters will stick with me for quite some time. It's found family at its finest and it's heartwarming!
Just a little side note...This book deals with addiction, child neglect and thoughts of harm. While it might be hard for some, it is done with a gentle hand.
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing for the advanced digital copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. No matter the season, this is a great read. However, I can only imagine a heightened experience, if you are reading it at a cabin by the lake.
October 12, 2025
Loon Point turned out to be such a pleasant surprise. I started it thinking it might be a slow, simple read, but I ended up really caring about these characters and their quiet little world in the Northwoods of Minnesota.
The story centers around Norry, who runs the small lakeside resort she inherited from her father. She’s settled into a life of solitude until a late spring blizzard changes everything. An eight-year-old girl named Lizzie shows up after being abandoned by her mother, followed by Wendell, an older man who’s lost his home and most of his hope. With the help of Bud, a kind local handyman, these unlikely people find themselves sharing space, warmth, and eventually something that feels like family.
I loved the tenderness of this story and the way it celebrates small moments of care and connection. The characters all felt genuine and easy to root for. My only wish was for the writing to show a bit more emotion rather than telling me how the characters felt, which kept it from being a full five stars for me.
Still, it’s a heartfelt, comforting read that leaves you feeling hopeful and reminded that kindness can show up in unexpected ways.
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing, Carrie Classon and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story centers around Norry, who runs the small lakeside resort she inherited from her father. She’s settled into a life of solitude until a late spring blizzard changes everything. An eight-year-old girl named Lizzie shows up after being abandoned by her mother, followed by Wendell, an older man who’s lost his home and most of his hope. With the help of Bud, a kind local handyman, these unlikely people find themselves sharing space, warmth, and eventually something that feels like family.
I loved the tenderness of this story and the way it celebrates small moments of care and connection. The characters all felt genuine and easy to root for. My only wish was for the writing to show a bit more emotion rather than telling me how the characters felt, which kept it from being a full five stars for me.
Still, it’s a heartfelt, comforting read that leaves you feeling hopeful and reminded that kindness can show up in unexpected ways.
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing, Carrie Classon and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing.
Really enjoyed this cozy story set in the Northwoods of Minnesota! It had a little bit of everything; a romance, a coming of age story, and a man in his twilight years find a new lease on life.
Would be perfect to read in front of the fire especially if it’s at a resort like the LAST RESORT with Norry on duty?
Really enjoyed this cozy story set in the Northwoods of Minnesota! It had a little bit of everything; a romance, a coming of age story, and a man in his twilight years find a new lease on life.
Would be perfect to read in front of the fire especially if it’s at a resort like the LAST RESORT with Norry on duty?
October 27, 2025
Four and a half stars rounded up. Carrie Classon’s “Loon Point” is her debut novel. Set in Minnesota, Norry Last inherited “The Last Resort” from her father. Norry is used to the solitude of her property between winter and late spring. She usually spends the down time doing maintenance around the resort and preparing for the upcoming summer months.
When a late snowstorm hits their area, the first to arrive is Lizzie. She’s eight years old and has a mother who is struggling with addiction. Lizzie also arrives with a stray dog she names Mr. Benson after one of her previous teachers. The second one to arrive is Wendell, a man in his 70s, whose house collapsed during the storm. Wendell is brought to The Last Resort by Bud, who has known Norry for a few decades.
I enjoyed this charming novel. It has an unassuming title, but the story has a nice pace and the characters are memorable. It’s about found family and helping others. I wanted to see how it ended, but I didn’t want the story to be over.
Overall, I recommend this book. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my ARC.
When a late snowstorm hits their area, the first to arrive is Lizzie. She’s eight years old and has a mother who is struggling with addiction. Lizzie also arrives with a stray dog she names Mr. Benson after one of her previous teachers. The second one to arrive is Wendell, a man in his 70s, whose house collapsed during the storm. Wendell is brought to The Last Resort by Bud, who has known Norry for a few decades.
I enjoyed this charming novel. It has an unassuming title, but the story has a nice pace and the characters are memorable. It’s about found family and helping others. I wanted to see how it ended, but I didn’t want the story to be over.
Overall, I recommend this book. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my ARC.
August 30, 2025
Big thanks to the publisher for making this available via NetGalley.
I am so pleasantly surprised by this book that I don’t even know where to begin with this review! I have to be honest, I didn’t expect this book to make me fall in love with it from the first few chapters, I thought I would have to ultimately force myself to finish it but I was so wrong! I actually finished it because I genuinely got attached to the characters in such a way that I had to see their journey to the end.
So, this is a feel good book, perfect for fans of Mitch Albom and, dare I say, Matt Haig, though not written with the same lyricism if you will. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed every moment I spent reading, but unfortunately for me and my tastes, the author spent a bit too much time telling us everything that was happening to the characters and the actions they took instead of showing us what the characters were going through, how they felt about their struggles, etc etc. I found myself caring about them, sure, but despite this, I would have liked a way to relate to them a bit more instead of being just a spectator to their story. This is mainly the reason why I didn’t give it the full 5 stars.
Again, I don’t regret one minute that I picked this up and I have to say, it has brought me a bit of a positive outlook on life that was very much needed as of late considering the direction the world is taking. I look forward to seeing what else the author puts out, if anything , and I wish her all the best!
I am so pleasantly surprised by this book that I don’t even know where to begin with this review! I have to be honest, I didn’t expect this book to make me fall in love with it from the first few chapters, I thought I would have to ultimately force myself to finish it but I was so wrong! I actually finished it because I genuinely got attached to the characters in such a way that I had to see their journey to the end.
So, this is a feel good book, perfect for fans of Mitch Albom and, dare I say, Matt Haig, though not written with the same lyricism if you will. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed every moment I spent reading, but unfortunately for me and my tastes, the author spent a bit too much time telling us everything that was happening to the characters and the actions they took instead of showing us what the characters were going through, how they felt about their struggles, etc etc. I found myself caring about them, sure, but despite this, I would have liked a way to relate to them a bit more instead of being just a spectator to their story. This is mainly the reason why I didn’t give it the full 5 stars.
Again, I don’t regret one minute that I picked this up and I have to say, it has brought me a bit of a positive outlook on life that was very much needed as of late considering the direction the world is taking. I look forward to seeing what else the author puts out, if anything , and I wish her all the best!
September 16, 2025
Norry has a busy life. Running the family resort takes up pretty much all of her time. She’s satisfied with the life she’s built for herself. Until a young girl shows up on her doorstep during a blizzard. And then an elderly man in need of shelter. With the help of a few close friends, Norry soon realizes that, while not exactly unhappy, she’s simply been going through the motions. With the help of these new additions to her life, she begins to see that family is what you make of it. This is a very heartwarming story about friends and family and what it means to let others into your life. Great characters, great storyline.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Loon Point by Carrie Classon is like wandering into a quiet snowstorm, wrapped in flannel, with a thermos of coffee and no plans—until you stumble upon a half-broken cabin glowing with warmth, a quirky crew of misfits inside, and suddenly realize you might not want to leave. This book snuck up on me. I cracked it open expecting a sweet little snow-globe story about life in the Northwoods, and what I got instead was a meditation on chosen family, aging, childhood trauma, grief, and the wild, ridiculous persistence of hope.
Huge thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for my gifted ARC. You’ll be shocked to know I picked this one up for the cover. (Yes, I judged. And I was right. It’s giving peaceful lakeside melancholy and cozy heartbreak—and I mean that in the best way.)
Our main character, Norry Last, is a woman content with her own quiet corner of the world. She’s inherited The Last Resort (yes, that’s the actual name, and yes, it’s perfect) from her father and runs it with the kind of solitary pride that comes from years of keeping things afloat on her own. She’s self-sufficient, maybe a little emotionally constipated, and perfectly happy to spend another spring alone in the cabins. That is, until nature intervenes.
Cue one late-season Minnesota blizzard. And cue Lizzie, an eight-year-old girl who shows up with a stray dog and enough emotional baggage to make Dr. Phil weep. Her mom, if you can call her that, has been absent in every way that counts. Lizzie doesn’t arrive with a dramatic speech or tears—she shows up because she’s got nowhere else to go. And honestly? That quiet desperation is what makes her story hit like a snowball to the face. Except the snowball has a love note inside. And also maybe a dead mouse.
Then we meet Wendell. He’s the kind of guy who’s basically allergic to joy. Bitter, closed off, living in the wreckage of his failed dreams and crumbling home—literally. When his roof caves in during the storm, he’s dragged (begrudgingly, of course) to the resort by Bud, the local handyman, fixer-of-everything, and possibly the last good man alive in the Midwest.
What follows isn’t a wild adventure. It’s not a dramatic plot full of twists. It’s something better. Something quieter. The story unfolds in slow, deliberate scenes—the kind that feel like sipping warm cider on a porch swing while watching snow melt. It’s a novel that trusts its characters to carry the weight, and they absolutely do.
Lizzie is a standout. Carrie Classon writes her with astonishing nuance. She’s a kid, but not written like a “quirky-wonderchild-who-teaches-everyone-a-lesson.” She’s wise and weird and scarred in that specific way neglected kids are—equal parts scrappy and yearning. Her dog, Mr. Benson (named after a teacher, which made me ugly-laugh and also cry a little), is her shield and her only stability.
Wendell, somehow, goes from “grumpy old dude who hates the sun” to someone I genuinely wanted to hug. He gets a literal eye surgery mid-book, which—okay, on the nose—but the metaphor works. As his physical vision clears, so does his emotional one. Yeah, it’s a bit cheesy, but it’s the good kind. The kind of cheese that’s melted over a hotdish and served at a potluck with a side of unexpected tears.
And then there’s Bud. Sweet, reliable, quiet Bud. The kind of man who builds things with his hands and doesn’t say much but notices everything. His presence in Norry’s life has always been there, simmering like something left unsaid. Their connection isn’t a whirlwind romance—it’s slower, sadder, and so much more real. The kind of love story that grows in the corners of your life until one day you realize it’s taken root.
What Classon does so well is restraint. The book never gets overly sentimental or tries to manipulate you. It just… invites you in. You sit beside these characters, eat their casseroles, listen to their silences, and realize you’ve grown attached. There’s no dramatic third-act betrayal, no manufactured conflict. Just life. Quiet, aching, healing life.
Favorite quote? Easy.
“Some people showed up like storms. Others like sunrises. But the rarest were the ones who didn’t show up at all—you just looked around and realized they’d been there all along.”
I underlined that one so hard I almost ripped the page.
My only nitpick? The book occasionally drifts into telling when I wanted more showing. Some of the emotional beats—especially Norry’s inner life—felt narrated rather than felt. But that’s me being picky. Because the bones of the story? Solid. The pacing? Gentle but purposeful. And the emotional payoff? Big, if you let it sneak up on you.
Final verdict? 4.5 stars, rounding up because it lingered. Like woodsmoke in your sweater. Like a loon call across a still lake at dusk.
This one’s for readers who like character-driven stories, quiet transformation, and a healthy dose of Midwestern emotional repression being lovingly dismantled by a child and a handyman. So, basically… me.
#LoonPoint #NetGalley #CarrieClasson #FoundFamilyFiction #BookReview #MinnesotaFiction #WomenInFiction #DebutNovel2026 #BooksWithHeart #CozyReads #EmotionalFiction #NorthwoodsLit #CharacterDrivenNovels
Huge thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for my gifted ARC. You’ll be shocked to know I picked this one up for the cover. (Yes, I judged. And I was right. It’s giving peaceful lakeside melancholy and cozy heartbreak—and I mean that in the best way.)
Our main character, Norry Last, is a woman content with her own quiet corner of the world. She’s inherited The Last Resort (yes, that’s the actual name, and yes, it’s perfect) from her father and runs it with the kind of solitary pride that comes from years of keeping things afloat on her own. She’s self-sufficient, maybe a little emotionally constipated, and perfectly happy to spend another spring alone in the cabins. That is, until nature intervenes.
Cue one late-season Minnesota blizzard. And cue Lizzie, an eight-year-old girl who shows up with a stray dog and enough emotional baggage to make Dr. Phil weep. Her mom, if you can call her that, has been absent in every way that counts. Lizzie doesn’t arrive with a dramatic speech or tears—she shows up because she’s got nowhere else to go. And honestly? That quiet desperation is what makes her story hit like a snowball to the face. Except the snowball has a love note inside. And also maybe a dead mouse.
Then we meet Wendell. He’s the kind of guy who’s basically allergic to joy. Bitter, closed off, living in the wreckage of his failed dreams and crumbling home—literally. When his roof caves in during the storm, he’s dragged (begrudgingly, of course) to the resort by Bud, the local handyman, fixer-of-everything, and possibly the last good man alive in the Midwest.
What follows isn’t a wild adventure. It’s not a dramatic plot full of twists. It’s something better. Something quieter. The story unfolds in slow, deliberate scenes—the kind that feel like sipping warm cider on a porch swing while watching snow melt. It’s a novel that trusts its characters to carry the weight, and they absolutely do.
Lizzie is a standout. Carrie Classon writes her with astonishing nuance. She’s a kid, but not written like a “quirky-wonderchild-who-teaches-everyone-a-lesson.” She’s wise and weird and scarred in that specific way neglected kids are—equal parts scrappy and yearning. Her dog, Mr. Benson (named after a teacher, which made me ugly-laugh and also cry a little), is her shield and her only stability.
Wendell, somehow, goes from “grumpy old dude who hates the sun” to someone I genuinely wanted to hug. He gets a literal eye surgery mid-book, which—okay, on the nose—but the metaphor works. As his physical vision clears, so does his emotional one. Yeah, it’s a bit cheesy, but it’s the good kind. The kind of cheese that’s melted over a hotdish and served at a potluck with a side of unexpected tears.
And then there’s Bud. Sweet, reliable, quiet Bud. The kind of man who builds things with his hands and doesn’t say much but notices everything. His presence in Norry’s life has always been there, simmering like something left unsaid. Their connection isn’t a whirlwind romance—it’s slower, sadder, and so much more real. The kind of love story that grows in the corners of your life until one day you realize it’s taken root.
What Classon does so well is restraint. The book never gets overly sentimental or tries to manipulate you. It just… invites you in. You sit beside these characters, eat their casseroles, listen to their silences, and realize you’ve grown attached. There’s no dramatic third-act betrayal, no manufactured conflict. Just life. Quiet, aching, healing life.
Favorite quote? Easy.
“Some people showed up like storms. Others like sunrises. But the rarest were the ones who didn’t show up at all—you just looked around and realized they’d been there all along.”
I underlined that one so hard I almost ripped the page.
My only nitpick? The book occasionally drifts into telling when I wanted more showing. Some of the emotional beats—especially Norry’s inner life—felt narrated rather than felt. But that’s me being picky. Because the bones of the story? Solid. The pacing? Gentle but purposeful. And the emotional payoff? Big, if you let it sneak up on you.
Final verdict? 4.5 stars, rounding up because it lingered. Like woodsmoke in your sweater. Like a loon call across a still lake at dusk.
This one’s for readers who like character-driven stories, quiet transformation, and a healthy dose of Midwestern emotional repression being lovingly dismantled by a child and a handyman. So, basically… me.
#LoonPoint #NetGalley #CarrieClasson #FoundFamilyFiction #BookReview #MinnesotaFiction #WomenInFiction #DebutNovel2026 #BooksWithHeart #CozyReads #EmotionalFiction #NorthwoodsLit #CharacterDrivenNovels
December 13, 2025
Loon Point by Carrie Classon
There are lessons to be learned in Loon Point and we get to see the story through three POVs. Norry Last inherited her dad's remote resort, The Last Resort, and she is settled in and happy in this life she's been leading for a long time now. She grew up here, went away to college and a failed marriage and then came back and never wants to leave again.
Eight year old Lizzie has recently been living nearby. Her mom became addicted to drugs possibly because of back pain meds and now Lizzie's ability to feel like she is safe and cared for is almost non existent. She is getting a crash course in not trusting the person a kid should be able to trust the most. Luckily, in the midst of being abandoned, Lizzie takes action and finds the welcoming arms and home of Norry.
Wendell, in his late seventies, feels like he's gotten all the bad breaks that can be gotten by one person. Everyone else has things better than he has them and they might even be the reason his life is so bad. The world is dark and gray to him and his house is literally falling apart around him. When it really does fall, he wants to die, is welcoming death, but that busybody who thinks he can help everyone saves Wendell's life. Wendell is going to be mad at Bud for that for the rest of his crummy life.
This story deals with hard issues but has a soft heart. Lizzie is such a good kid and she loves her mom but each time mom comes back into the picture my heart breaks for Lizzie. I could relate to Norry in so many ways and she has to stand back and let things happen that she would never allow if she had a way to stop those things happening. But at least she can take care of something that means so much to Lizzie.
Then there is Bud, who fixes everything and everyone. He does it without thinking, he just does what needs to be done and never gives it another thought. Helping others is what he is all about and he is there for Norry and Izzie and everyone else. Norry tries to tamp down thoughts about her friend of over thirty years but maybe she doesn't want to tamp them down anymore?
And there is Wendell, whose eyes will get a new life and give him new insight to how what he thought and saw might not be reality. Wendell is our walking, talking life lesson and it's a good one to learn. All these people are characters I care about although caring about mom has to be with a shell around my heart because there are some who cannot be fixed. Or at least, the fixing has to come from her, even if she's given some help.
This story is a winner and I enjoyed discussing it with DeAnn, Jayme and Mary Beth. I'll look for more from this author. Even though I felt sad and worried during the story, I was left with such a good feeling in my heart once it was over.
Expected publication January 27, 2026
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC.
There are lessons to be learned in Loon Point and we get to see the story through three POVs. Norry Last inherited her dad's remote resort, The Last Resort, and she is settled in and happy in this life she's been leading for a long time now. She grew up here, went away to college and a failed marriage and then came back and never wants to leave again.
Eight year old Lizzie has recently been living nearby. Her mom became addicted to drugs possibly because of back pain meds and now Lizzie's ability to feel like she is safe and cared for is almost non existent. She is getting a crash course in not trusting the person a kid should be able to trust the most. Luckily, in the midst of being abandoned, Lizzie takes action and finds the welcoming arms and home of Norry.
Wendell, in his late seventies, feels like he's gotten all the bad breaks that can be gotten by one person. Everyone else has things better than he has them and they might even be the reason his life is so bad. The world is dark and gray to him and his house is literally falling apart around him. When it really does fall, he wants to die, is welcoming death, but that busybody who thinks he can help everyone saves Wendell's life. Wendell is going to be mad at Bud for that for the rest of his crummy life.
This story deals with hard issues but has a soft heart. Lizzie is such a good kid and she loves her mom but each time mom comes back into the picture my heart breaks for Lizzie. I could relate to Norry in so many ways and she has to stand back and let things happen that she would never allow if she had a way to stop those things happening. But at least she can take care of something that means so much to Lizzie.
Then there is Bud, who fixes everything and everyone. He does it without thinking, he just does what needs to be done and never gives it another thought. Helping others is what he is all about and he is there for Norry and Izzie and everyone else. Norry tries to tamp down thoughts about her friend of over thirty years but maybe she doesn't want to tamp them down anymore?
And there is Wendell, whose eyes will get a new life and give him new insight to how what he thought and saw might not be reality. Wendell is our walking, talking life lesson and it's a good one to learn. All these people are characters I care about although caring about mom has to be with a shell around my heart because there are some who cannot be fixed. Or at least, the fixing has to come from her, even if she's given some help.
This story is a winner and I enjoyed discussing it with DeAnn, Jayme and Mary Beth. I'll look for more from this author. Even though I felt sad and worried during the story, I was left with such a good feeling in my heart once it was over.
Expected publication January 27, 2026
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC.
December 7, 2025
📚Loon Point
✍🏻Carrie Classon
Blurb:
Set against the rugged beauty of the northern woods, the heartwarming first novel by columnist Carrie Classon explores how chosen family can sweeten bitterness into surprising joy.
Alone in the Northwoods, Norry Last settles in for another springtime lull at the remote resort she inherited from her father. She’s content with the solitude, maybe resigned. But when a blizzard hits, those little cabins by the lake start to fill up fast.
First to arrive is Lizzie, an eight-year-old with resilience and wisdom beyond her years, neglected by a mother struggling with addiction. Next comes Wendell, a cantankerous old fellow whose house collapses in the storm, the same way hope collapsed inside him long before. And then there’s Bud, the helpful handyman who’s always buzzing around, his kindness thawing something Norry thought she’d buried deep in the Minnesota snow.
As white melts to green, The Last Resort’s unlikely companions learn to share space, stories, and quiet comforts—an unexpected family that makes perfect sense. After all, Lizzie needs to be cared for. Wendell needs to care. Norry needs to open up. And Bud? Bud just might fix everything.
My Thoughts:
This book is quietly beautiful. From the beginning when we meet our four characters and a withering dog, we are not sure where they will interact and what types of relationships they will build together. We see that Norry and Bud are caregivers and Lizzie and Wendell are in need of taking that care, but the building of those connections occurs in this light pace, moving forward and never hurried. I recommend this book for general fiction fans, romance readers (it is a beautiful, slow blossoming love with some giddiness) and those who enjoy a small town or northern setting. There is so much grace in this book for fellow humans and nature and ways people continue to hurt. It is imaginative and surprising and extremely well-constructed. Bravo to Carrie Classon.
Thanks NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and Author Carrie Classon for the advanced copy of "Loon Point" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#LakeUnionPublishing
#LoonPoint
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Carrie Classon
Blurb:
Set against the rugged beauty of the northern woods, the heartwarming first novel by columnist Carrie Classon explores how chosen family can sweeten bitterness into surprising joy.
Alone in the Northwoods, Norry Last settles in for another springtime lull at the remote resort she inherited from her father. She’s content with the solitude, maybe resigned. But when a blizzard hits, those little cabins by the lake start to fill up fast.
First to arrive is Lizzie, an eight-year-old with resilience and wisdom beyond her years, neglected by a mother struggling with addiction. Next comes Wendell, a cantankerous old fellow whose house collapses in the storm, the same way hope collapsed inside him long before. And then there’s Bud, the helpful handyman who’s always buzzing around, his kindness thawing something Norry thought she’d buried deep in the Minnesota snow.
As white melts to green, The Last Resort’s unlikely companions learn to share space, stories, and quiet comforts—an unexpected family that makes perfect sense. After all, Lizzie needs to be cared for. Wendell needs to care. Norry needs to open up. And Bud? Bud just might fix everything.
My Thoughts:
This book is quietly beautiful. From the beginning when we meet our four characters and a withering dog, we are not sure where they will interact and what types of relationships they will build together. We see that Norry and Bud are caregivers and Lizzie and Wendell are in need of taking that care, but the building of those connections occurs in this light pace, moving forward and never hurried. I recommend this book for general fiction fans, romance readers (it is a beautiful, slow blossoming love with some giddiness) and those who enjoy a small town or northern setting. There is so much grace in this book for fellow humans and nature and ways people continue to hurt. It is imaginative and surprising and extremely well-constructed. Bravo to Carrie Classon.
Thanks NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and Author Carrie Classon for the advanced copy of "Loon Point" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#LakeUnionPublishing
#LoonPoint
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 small town surprise stars
This debut author surprised me with her simple story set in a small town in Minnesota's Northwoods. Carrie Classon introduces us to characters that will stay with me, and they touched my heart.
There’s Norry Last, who took over The Last Resort, with lakeside cabins, from her father and has settled in nicely. In the summer, she’s super busy with campers and families at the lake. There are some downtimes in the winter when she’s all alone.
Lizzie is eight and getting herself to school via the bus every day, determined to earn her perfect attendance award. Some of the other kids tease her for her dirty clothes and appearance. Her mom is sick and isn’t helping at all at home.
Wendell is in his seventies and unsure whether life is still worth living. When his house literally collapses, he’s forced to change his life and decide if he can find value.
And finally, we have Bud, the nice guy who is always helping others, often for no repayment. He likes to fix things.
A raging snowstorm finds Lizzie seeking out shelter with Norry, her nearest neighbor, and Wendell finds refuge at The Last Resort, too. Soon, Norry is busier than she thought! As life moves on for this group, they all come together and become a found family. I loved seeing Lizzie blossom under Norry's care and find stability.
Bud is an all-around great man, and I rooted for his happiness and Norry's. And Wendell, he comes full circle, literally seeing the beauty in the world. I loved his bond with Lizzie and his newfound purpose.
Even though the story is simple, the characters have to deal with challenging issues, and I loved how it plays out. I can’t wait to read future books from this author!
Marilyn, Jayme, and Mary Beth, and I enjoyed a great buddy read with this one.
My thanks to Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read and honestly review this one. Scheduled to release on 1.27.2026.
This debut author surprised me with her simple story set in a small town in Minnesota's Northwoods. Carrie Classon introduces us to characters that will stay with me, and they touched my heart.
There’s Norry Last, who took over The Last Resort, with lakeside cabins, from her father and has settled in nicely. In the summer, she’s super busy with campers and families at the lake. There are some downtimes in the winter when she’s all alone.
Lizzie is eight and getting herself to school via the bus every day, determined to earn her perfect attendance award. Some of the other kids tease her for her dirty clothes and appearance. Her mom is sick and isn’t helping at all at home.
Wendell is in his seventies and unsure whether life is still worth living. When his house literally collapses, he’s forced to change his life and decide if he can find value.
And finally, we have Bud, the nice guy who is always helping others, often for no repayment. He likes to fix things.
A raging snowstorm finds Lizzie seeking out shelter with Norry, her nearest neighbor, and Wendell finds refuge at The Last Resort, too. Soon, Norry is busier than she thought! As life moves on for this group, they all come together and become a found family. I loved seeing Lizzie blossom under Norry's care and find stability.
Bud is an all-around great man, and I rooted for his happiness and Norry's. And Wendell, he comes full circle, literally seeing the beauty in the world. I loved his bond with Lizzie and his newfound purpose.
Even though the story is simple, the characters have to deal with challenging issues, and I loved how it plays out. I can’t wait to read future books from this author!
Marilyn, Jayme, and Mary Beth, and I enjoyed a great buddy read with this one.
My thanks to Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read and honestly review this one. Scheduled to release on 1.27.2026.
September 21, 2025
Set in the serene Northwoods of Minnesota, Loon Point is a tender and beautifully told story about unexpected connections and the healing power of kindness. The novel centers around Norry Last, who inherits the “Last Resort”—a cluster of lakeside cabins—from her late father. She runs the place mostly on her own, and during a surprise late-season blizzard, she finds herself with two unexpected guests.
Eight-year-old Lizzie, abandoned by her addicted mother, sets out alone through the snow with a stray dog she later names Mr. Benson, after her favorite teacher. Cold and hungry, they arrive at the Last Resort, where Norry welcomes them with warmth and compassion.
Meanwhile, Wendall, a 72-year-old pessimist who’s lost everything when his roof collapses under the snow, is brought to the resort by Bud—a steadfast friend and local helper. Norry offers Wendall a cabin, and slowly, the icy walls around his heart begin to thaw.
As the story unfolds, Lizzie finds a sense of belonging, Wendall discovers hope, and the decades-long friendship between Bud and Norry hints at something deeper. The characters are richly drawn, each with their own quiet struggles and gentle transformations.
Loon Point is a celebration of chosen family, resilience, and the small acts of care that bind people together. Carrie Classon’s storytelling is both poignant and uplifting—a perfect read for anyone who believes in second chances and the warmth of community.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
Eight-year-old Lizzie, abandoned by her addicted mother, sets out alone through the snow with a stray dog she later names Mr. Benson, after her favorite teacher. Cold and hungry, they arrive at the Last Resort, where Norry welcomes them with warmth and compassion.
Meanwhile, Wendall, a 72-year-old pessimist who’s lost everything when his roof collapses under the snow, is brought to the resort by Bud—a steadfast friend and local helper. Norry offers Wendall a cabin, and slowly, the icy walls around his heart begin to thaw.
As the story unfolds, Lizzie finds a sense of belonging, Wendall discovers hope, and the decades-long friendship between Bud and Norry hints at something deeper. The characters are richly drawn, each with their own quiet struggles and gentle transformations.
Loon Point is a celebration of chosen family, resilience, and the small acts of care that bind people together. Carrie Classon’s storytelling is both poignant and uplifting—a perfect read for anyone who believes in second chances and the warmth of community.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
August 26, 2025
There’s a quiet grace to Loon Point—a story that doesn’t rush, but gently unfolds like spring thawing the last traces of winter. Norry Last, tucked away in her inherited lakeside resort, is a woman shaped by solitude. She’s not searching for change, but when a blizzard brings unexpected guests to her doorstep, change finds her anyway.
What follows is a tender, character-driven tale of connection. Lizzie, the sharp and soulful child; Wendell, gruff and grieving; Bud, steady and kind—they each bring something Norry didn’t know she needed. The novel doesn’t rely on drama or spectacle. Instead, it leans into the beauty of quiet transformation, of people slowly learning to trust, to care, and to be cared for.
Carrie Classon’s prose is warm and unpretentious, with a touch of poetic charm. The setting—those northern woods and icy cabins—feels like a character in itself, mirroring the emotional thaw that takes place. It’s a story about chosen family, about healing in unexpected ways, and about how even the most isolated places can become sanctuaries.
If you’re drawn to stories that feel like a deep breath—gentle, grounded, and full of heart—Loon Point is a lovely read.
With thanks to Carrie Classon, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
What follows is a tender, character-driven tale of connection. Lizzie, the sharp and soulful child; Wendell, gruff and grieving; Bud, steady and kind—they each bring something Norry didn’t know she needed. The novel doesn’t rely on drama or spectacle. Instead, it leans into the beauty of quiet transformation, of people slowly learning to trust, to care, and to be cared for.
Carrie Classon’s prose is warm and unpretentious, with a touch of poetic charm. The setting—those northern woods and icy cabins—feels like a character in itself, mirroring the emotional thaw that takes place. It’s a story about chosen family, about healing in unexpected ways, and about how even the most isolated places can become sanctuaries.
If you’re drawn to stories that feel like a deep breath—gentle, grounded, and full of heart—Loon Point is a lovely read.
With thanks to Carrie Classon, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received this book as a Netgalley ARC.
In this book, we follow Norry, who runs a holiday resort in rural Minnesota; Lizzie, an 8-year-old whose mother is struggling with drug addiction; and Wendell, an elderly man who thinks his life is terrible.
Over the course of the book, they all come together in various ways, and build connections with each other over the period of a year. All three perspectives are extremely well written, with distinctive narrative voices that match their age and lifestage. I wasn't all that keen on Wendell to begin with, but he had the best arc of all of them by the end.
It's a much quieter story than I was expecting, but I really enjoyed it. It's a bit repetitive in places, but that fits with the nature of the story being told and it didn't bother me that much.
I do like a female protagonist in her mid-40s, and Norry's attitudes and responses to things felt authentic.
I liked the romance aspect a lot, but was glad it didn't overpower the other parts of the story.
There were some logistical issues that weren't quite thought through (particularly in relation to hospital bills) but that didn't really detract from the emotional impact of the book, which was very good.
In this book, we follow Norry, who runs a holiday resort in rural Minnesota; Lizzie, an 8-year-old whose mother is struggling with drug addiction; and Wendell, an elderly man who thinks his life is terrible.
Over the course of the book, they all come together in various ways, and build connections with each other over the period of a year. All three perspectives are extremely well written, with distinctive narrative voices that match their age and lifestage. I wasn't all that keen on Wendell to begin with, but he had the best arc of all of them by the end.
It's a much quieter story than I was expecting, but I really enjoyed it. It's a bit repetitive in places, but that fits with the nature of the story being told and it didn't bother me that much.
I do like a female protagonist in her mid-40s, and Norry's attitudes and responses to things felt authentic.
I liked the romance aspect a lot, but was glad it didn't overpower the other parts of the story.
There were some logistical issues that weren't quite thought through (particularly in relation to hospital bills) but that didn't really detract from the emotional impact of the book, which was very good.
December 20, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is a quiet, character-driven debut novel set in Minnesota’s Northwoods—always a setting I enjoy. The story is told from three perspectives: Norry, Lizzie, and Wendell, whose lives intersect starting with a long winter at a lakeside resort.
Norry has inherited The Last Resort from her father and has settled into a life shaped by solitude and routine. Lizzie is an eight-year-old girl navigating a difficult home life including a parent struggling with addiction. Wendell, in his seventies, is dealing with loneliness and questions of purpose after his life quite literally collapses. Bud is a steady presence always willing to help out. When a blizzard brings them together, their shared time slowly grows into an unexpected found family.
The plot is simple, but the strength of the book lies in its characters and the way their stories unfold. Themes of care, connection, and second chances are handled with warmth and compassion.. The novel shows healing happening quietly, over time.
A thoughtful debut that will appeal to readers who enjoy reflective stories, small communities, and Minnesota settings.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a quiet, character-driven debut novel set in Minnesota’s Northwoods—always a setting I enjoy. The story is told from three perspectives: Norry, Lizzie, and Wendell, whose lives intersect starting with a long winter at a lakeside resort.
Norry has inherited The Last Resort from her father and has settled into a life shaped by solitude and routine. Lizzie is an eight-year-old girl navigating a difficult home life including a parent struggling with addiction. Wendell, in his seventies, is dealing with loneliness and questions of purpose after his life quite literally collapses. Bud is a steady presence always willing to help out. When a blizzard brings them together, their shared time slowly grows into an unexpected found family.
The plot is simple, but the strength of the book lies in its characters and the way their stories unfold. Themes of care, connection, and second chances are handled with warmth and compassion.. The novel shows healing happening quietly, over time.
A thoughtful debut that will appeal to readers who enjoy reflective stories, small communities, and Minnesota settings.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 10, 2025
3.5 stars. While the story took a bit to unfold, LOON POINT had all the makings of a feel-good story through an eclectic cast of characters—
1. Wendell, an older man who wants to die after losing his home and his possessions when his roof collapses
2. Lizzie, an eight-year-old girl whose mother is an addict, and who just wants to be safe, clothed, and fed
3. Norry, a divorced woman who returns to run her family’s resort, and who takes in both Wendell and Lizzie when they need it most
4. Bud, a volunteer firefighter who saves Wendell and becomes a fixture in Norry’s life
5. And Mr. Benson, a delightful curly-coated stray dog who adores Lizzie and is so very smart
I loved how these characters came together and became better people through their connections with each other. There were some ups and downs, but overall, I enjoyed this very much.
🌟Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.🌟
1. Wendell, an older man who wants to die after losing his home and his possessions when his roof collapses
2. Lizzie, an eight-year-old girl whose mother is an addict, and who just wants to be safe, clothed, and fed
3. Norry, a divorced woman who returns to run her family’s resort, and who takes in both Wendell and Lizzie when they need it most
4. Bud, a volunteer firefighter who saves Wendell and becomes a fixture in Norry’s life
5. And Mr. Benson, a delightful curly-coated stray dog who adores Lizzie and is so very smart
I loved how these characters came together and became better people through their connections with each other. There were some ups and downs, but overall, I enjoyed this very much.
🌟Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.🌟
September 23, 2025
When bad weather leads to an unexpected surge of visitors at her somewhat isolated resort, Norry finds that she has far more company than she expected for this time of year. What she doesn't know is just how much this will change her life for the better.
This is a charming story about the way that found family can ease loneliness, strangers can become friends, and love can emerge from the unlikeliest of circumstances.
Sweet and subtle in the way it finds its way into your heart through Norry and a motley cast of characters, this gets 3.5 stars and is well worth your time.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
This is a charming story about the way that found family can ease loneliness, strangers can become friends, and love can emerge from the unlikeliest of circumstances.
Sweet and subtle in the way it finds its way into your heart through Norry and a motley cast of characters, this gets 3.5 stars and is well worth your time.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
September 11, 2025
Thank you to #Netgalley for allowing me read this Arc before its publication date!
I thoroughly enjoyed it. The book felt cosy and warm, and even when events turned slightly sour or dramatic
A comfortable moment was squeezed in, and all felt well.
Lizzies story is one that appears to be quite common in the States, and Wendell's seems to be common worldwide.
But these souls find each other, create a web of love and unity and soothe their aches with moments of joy.
I also loved the facts that were thrown in the book about Loons- I'm a bit of a twitcher, so it was great to learn!#loonpoint
I thoroughly enjoyed it. The book felt cosy and warm, and even when events turned slightly sour or dramatic
A comfortable moment was squeezed in, and all felt well.
Lizzies story is one that appears to be quite common in the States, and Wendell's seems to be common worldwide.
But these souls find each other, create a web of love and unity and soothe their aches with moments of joy.
I also loved the facts that were thrown in the book about Loons- I'm a bit of a twitcher, so it was great to learn!#loonpoint
September 4, 2025
If I had to use one word to describe this book, it’d be “cozy”. Despite some difficult subject matter, this story was heartwarming. It showed the ebbs and flows of the emotions people go through every day, giving the perspectives of three different generations. Norry, Lizzie (and Mr. Benson), and Wendell were able to find a family within one another and that is truly beautiful. Thank you very much NetGalley for this ARC opportunity.
October 7, 2025
Thank you Net Galley for letting me read the ARC of this novel!
This beautiful story intertwines the lives Norry, Lizzie, and Wendell. They are all brought together by unfortunate circumstances to Norry’s lakeside resort in rural Minnesota.
Each of them struggle with loneliness in different ways, but all come together to find comfort, and most importantly, family within each other.
If you like character driven novels, this one is for you!
4/5 ⭐️
This beautiful story intertwines the lives Norry, Lizzie, and Wendell. They are all brought together by unfortunate circumstances to Norry’s lakeside resort in rural Minnesota.
Each of them struggle with loneliness in different ways, but all come together to find comfort, and most importantly, family within each other.
If you like character driven novels, this one is for you!
4/5 ⭐️
October 22, 2025
Started strong, but I lost interest about a third of the way in. At first, I liked the characters, especially Norry, and I loved the name of the resort: Last Resort, but for some reason, that I cannot put a finger on, I lost interest pretty early on. The winter night and the house collapsed, and the girl found the dog and got to the Last Resort, and then I didn't want to keep reading. Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Valley Publishing for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
December 7, 2025
This story kept me reading, with what life was bringing to Norry's life. She discovers things she didn't know she needed, even when she got disappointed, she kept moving on with what life brought her each day. As she just kept going through what each day brought to her, she finally saw, what life was giving her. I saw life a little differently after reading this story.
I received an ARC from Lake Union Publishing through NetGalley.
I received an ARC from Lake Union Publishing through NetGalley.
August 25, 2025
Het is alsof je Where the Crawdads Sing combineert met The Light Through the Leaves en een vleugje A Man Called Ove toevoegd tot een prima boek waar je snel doorheen leest.
August 31, 2025
those mental issues were a tough pill to swallow but i loved the story overall. the physical ailments of a few characters were a shock too.
September 17, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this delightful ARC. I truly enjoyed this. Wendell was a delight and his perspective change was enlightening! Charming.
November 3, 2025
so sweet yet heart-wrenching!! 4.25★
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