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Between Two Seasons
“...a fine and funny novel populated with characters and scenes you won’t soon forget. Deftly balancing humour and heart, MacDonald writes with a deep understanding of the human species."
— Terry Fallis, two-time winner of the Leacock Medal for Humour
“It’s one of those rare novels that will make you laugh so much you won’t even notice it’s also about to break your heart.
— Amy Jones, bestselling author of We're All in This Together
Haunted by regret and stalled by guilt, Alex Chambers arrives at Silver Springs Health and Rehabilitation Centre searching for redemption. What he finds instead is Mae Seasons—a sharp-tongued, fiercely independent resident with no interest in being anyone’s project.
Alex came hoping to make amends for the mistakes of his youth, especially to the woman he once hurt. But when that hope slips away, he’s drawn into an unexpected caregiver and reluctant confidant to Mae, whose irreverence hides a lifetime of buried truths.
As days at Silver Springs unfold in their strange, often absurd rhythm, Alex is forced to confront the tangled grief of his past. Through awkward silences, reluctant confessions, and moments of startling vulnerability, he and Mae forge an unlikely friendship—one stitched together by shared loneliness, reluctant compassion, and the possibility of healing.
At once poignant and quietly humorous, Between Two Seasons is a story about the lives we try to outrun, the people who challenge us to face ourselves, and the surprising ways connection takes root.
— Terry Fallis, two-time winner of the Leacock Medal for Humour
“It’s one of those rare novels that will make you laugh so much you won’t even notice it’s also about to break your heart.
— Amy Jones, bestselling author of We're All in This Together
Haunted by regret and stalled by guilt, Alex Chambers arrives at Silver Springs Health and Rehabilitation Centre searching for redemption. What he finds instead is Mae Seasons—a sharp-tongued, fiercely independent resident with no interest in being anyone’s project.
Alex came hoping to make amends for the mistakes of his youth, especially to the woman he once hurt. But when that hope slips away, he’s drawn into an unexpected caregiver and reluctant confidant to Mae, whose irreverence hides a lifetime of buried truths.
As days at Silver Springs unfold in their strange, often absurd rhythm, Alex is forced to confront the tangled grief of his past. Through awkward silences, reluctant confessions, and moments of startling vulnerability, he and Mae forge an unlikely friendship—one stitched together by shared loneliness, reluctant compassion, and the possibility of healing.
At once poignant and quietly humorous, Between Two Seasons is a story about the lives we try to outrun, the people who challenge us to face ourselves, and the surprising ways connection takes root.
354 pages, Paperback
Published September 2, 2025
4 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Marc MacDonald
3 books38 followersMarc MacDonald is an award-winning author who believes every great story starts with a spark — whether it’s a single sentence, an unforgettable character, or an idea that won’t let go. As a writer, Marc weaves heartfelt narratives that linger long after the last page is turned.
When he’s not crafting compelling fiction, Marc applies his storytelling skills as a seasoned communications professional, proving that every message—whether in a book or a press release—deserves to be engaging. He’s also a fierce defender of the Oxford comma, an unapologetic pun enthusiast, and someone who firmly believes that coffee is the most essential writing tool.
Find him deep in his next manuscript, chasing inspiration, or justifying “research” as an excuse to buy more books.
When he’s not crafting compelling fiction, Marc applies his storytelling skills as a seasoned communications professional, proving that every message—whether in a book or a press release—deserves to be engaging. He’s also a fierce defender of the Oxford comma, an unapologetic pun enthusiast, and someone who firmly believes that coffee is the most essential writing tool.
Find him deep in his next manuscript, chasing inspiration, or justifying “research” as an excuse to buy more books.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
August 28, 2025
Between Two Seasons is an absolutely beautiful, breathtaking, heartbreaking story of hope, redemption and human connections. This book isn't in any way something I wanted to binge, it was a book I want to take my time with, savor, enjoy each character connection, each relationship. Marc's writing creates an immerseful experience for the reader. With his vivid descriptions, his calm writing technique, his perfect prose, his masterful dialogues, everything meshed together made for a truly beautiful read.
MacDonald has created some amazing characters. Some of the most likeable I've read recently. They were an absolute highlight for me. The complexity in which the author built them, the layers to uncover throughout it was just such a fun experience. The banter between Mae & Alex was the funniest, but also meaningful in the more serious moments. I went through a rollercoaster of emotions while reading. This story is filled with so much realism that you truly relate to the characters and feel like you know them.
This book was a beautiful little work of art. It is lyrical and evocative, bringing this story to life. A resonating story that will have readers reflecting on their past experiences. Very excited to see what MacDonald comes up with next!
✨️Thank you to @marcmacdonaldfor my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
MacDonald has created some amazing characters. Some of the most likeable I've read recently. They were an absolute highlight for me. The complexity in which the author built them, the layers to uncover throughout it was just such a fun experience. The banter between Mae & Alex was the funniest, but also meaningful in the more serious moments. I went through a rollercoaster of emotions while reading. This story is filled with so much realism that you truly relate to the characters and feel like you know them.
This book was a beautiful little work of art. It is lyrical and evocative, bringing this story to life. A resonating story that will have readers reflecting on their past experiences. Very excited to see what MacDonald comes up with next!
✨️Thank you to @marcmacdonaldfor my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2025
Marc Macdonald's Between Two Seasons took me on an emotional journey I wasn't quite prepared for but absolutely needed. From the first page, I was utterly drawn into Alex's world. He's the kind of narrator who doesn't just tell a story. He brings you inside it with humor, raw honesty, and internal dialogue that made me laugh out loud more than once. There's something incredibly relatable about him: his uncertainties, his reflections, and especially his reasons for ending up in Silver Springs.
What starts as a quiet exploration of personal healing quickly becomes much more. Mae, who initially seems like a secondary figure, blossoms into a character with one of the most beautiful backstories l've read in a long time. Her depth, resilience, and quiet grace caught me off guard in the best way. Watching the bond between Alex and Mae unfold was like sitting beside a fire on a cold day; it warmed, softened, and stayed with me long after I finished the last page.
Marc Macdonald's storytelling is truly splendid. He crafts scenes with sensitivity and subtle power, allowing the emotional weight to build in effortless ways. The prose is both elegant and grounded, painting Silver Springs as a place that feels real, lived in, and quietly magical.
Between Two Seasons made me laugh, cry, and, most importantly, feel. It's a testament to Macdonald's gift as a writer that such a simple premise could hold such depth and emotional resonance. I'll be thinking about Alex and Mae for a long time.
What starts as a quiet exploration of personal healing quickly becomes much more. Mae, who initially seems like a secondary figure, blossoms into a character with one of the most beautiful backstories l've read in a long time. Her depth, resilience, and quiet grace caught me off guard in the best way. Watching the bond between Alex and Mae unfold was like sitting beside a fire on a cold day; it warmed, softened, and stayed with me long after I finished the last page.
Marc Macdonald's storytelling is truly splendid. He crafts scenes with sensitivity and subtle power, allowing the emotional weight to build in effortless ways. The prose is both elegant and grounded, painting Silver Springs as a place that feels real, lived in, and quietly magical.
Between Two Seasons made me laugh, cry, and, most importantly, feel. It's a testament to Macdonald's gift as a writer that such a simple premise could hold such depth and emotional resonance. I'll be thinking about Alex and Mae for a long time.
September 20, 2025
📖 Book Review 📖
Summary:
Alex Chambers has a perfectly valid reason for dropping everything and volunteering at Silver Springs Rehabilitation Center . . . a reason he’s not ready to share.
And Mae Seasons, a sharp witted, strong willed resident with a soft heart buried under layers of sass, is determined to uncover it.
When Alex is assigned as Mae’s personal volunteer, neither expects much. But through the ups and downs, the stubborn silences, the unexpected laughter, and the small breakthroughs, they begin to change each other in quiet, meaningful ways.
It’s not always easy. But sometimes, the people you least expect are the ones who help you heal.
My Overall Thoughts:
This story had a powerful message about not waiting to really live your life, and the pain that comes with lost love. It was drenched in atmospheric writing and honestly that was the highlight of the book for me. That said, a main plot point felt unrealistic and just couldn’t look past it. There was so much potential here, and I wish it had gone through a more critical edit to help it really come to life.
If you’re into character driven stories with atmospheric and descriptive writing, this might be up your alley. Just know going in Alex’s motivations and decisions may frustrate you.
My rating: 3.75 ⭐️ (rounded up for Goodreads)
What I liked:
🍁 The setting! The concept of a secluded hotel being refurbished into a rehabilitation center was fantastic. I especially appreciated the unique plot element where staff and volunteers, due to the remote location, receive free room and board. It’s something I’ve never come across before and immediately found compelling.
🍁 Seasonal atmosphere! Oh boy, did this book make my season loving heart happy. It begins with the end of summer, moves through a crisp, colorful fall, and wraps up in December. Golden leaves, rainy cool days, and twinkling lights filled the pages, it was exactly the seasonally drenched vibe I was craving.
🍁 Mae Seasons! While I didn’t always agree with her decisions or connect with every aspect of her character, I found myself loving her by the end. I felt genuinely invested in her story, which caught me by surprise in the best way.
What I didn’t like:
🍁 The humor. Unfortunately a lot of the humor, especially the more sexual jokes and hazing scenes, just didn’t work for me. Instead of laughing, I found myself cringing. I understand why these moments were included, but personally, I wish they hadn’t been.
🍁 The writing style. The descriptive prose was a bit of a double edged sword. For the most part, I appreciated the vivid imagery, but at times it felt like too much. Cutting back on some of the elaborate sentences would have made the story stronger, in my opinion.
🍁 Alex’s reason. I hate to say it, but I didn’t buy it. His motivation for going to Silver Springs didn’t feel believable, and that affected my overall investment in the story. I probably would have rated the book higher if his backstory had been more realistic.
Summary:
Alex Chambers has a perfectly valid reason for dropping everything and volunteering at Silver Springs Rehabilitation Center . . . a reason he’s not ready to share.
And Mae Seasons, a sharp witted, strong willed resident with a soft heart buried under layers of sass, is determined to uncover it.
When Alex is assigned as Mae’s personal volunteer, neither expects much. But through the ups and downs, the stubborn silences, the unexpected laughter, and the small breakthroughs, they begin to change each other in quiet, meaningful ways.
It’s not always easy. But sometimes, the people you least expect are the ones who help you heal.
My Overall Thoughts:
This story had a powerful message about not waiting to really live your life, and the pain that comes with lost love. It was drenched in atmospheric writing and honestly that was the highlight of the book for me. That said, a main plot point felt unrealistic and just couldn’t look past it. There was so much potential here, and I wish it had gone through a more critical edit to help it really come to life.
If you’re into character driven stories with atmospheric and descriptive writing, this might be up your alley. Just know going in Alex’s motivations and decisions may frustrate you.
My rating: 3.75 ⭐️ (rounded up for Goodreads)
What I liked:
🍁 The setting! The concept of a secluded hotel being refurbished into a rehabilitation center was fantastic. I especially appreciated the unique plot element where staff and volunteers, due to the remote location, receive free room and board. It’s something I’ve never come across before and immediately found compelling.
🍁 Seasonal atmosphere! Oh boy, did this book make my season loving heart happy. It begins with the end of summer, moves through a crisp, colorful fall, and wraps up in December. Golden leaves, rainy cool days, and twinkling lights filled the pages, it was exactly the seasonally drenched vibe I was craving.
🍁 Mae Seasons! While I didn’t always agree with her decisions or connect with every aspect of her character, I found myself loving her by the end. I felt genuinely invested in her story, which caught me by surprise in the best way.
What I didn’t like:
🍁 The humor. Unfortunately a lot of the humor, especially the more sexual jokes and hazing scenes, just didn’t work for me. Instead of laughing, I found myself cringing. I understand why these moments were included, but personally, I wish they hadn’t been.
🍁 The writing style. The descriptive prose was a bit of a double edged sword. For the most part, I appreciated the vivid imagery, but at times it felt like too much. Cutting back on some of the elaborate sentences would have made the story stronger, in my opinion.
🍁 Alex’s reason. I hate to say it, but I didn’t buy it. His motivation for going to Silver Springs didn’t feel believable, and that affected my overall investment in the story. I probably would have rated the book higher if his backstory had been more realistic.
August 26, 2025
I wish Goodreads would allow for 4.5 stars!
Burdened by past mistakes, Alex Chambers arrives at Silver Springs Health and Rehabilitation Centre seeking redemption, only to find himself facing unexpected challenges. His journey of atonement takes a turn when he’s assigned to care for Mae Seasons, a sharp-tongued, unapologetic resident who quickly becomes the heart of the story. As their unlikely friendship develops, Alex begins to unravel his past and discover a new sense of hope.
“Autumn” is a beautiful comforting story that filled me with joy. Marc has crafted a narrative rich with themes of self-discovery, found family, and forgiveness. The story truly finds its rhythm around chapter four, but it’s Mae who transforms the reading experience. Her character is wonderfully reminiscent of Estelle from “Golden Girls”—grouchy, a little insane, but filled with wisdom. Mae’s dynamic presence not only carries the story but also makes Alex’s journey of self-discovery deeply engaging.
Silver Springs, the setting of the novel, is a character in its own right, brought to life with vivid and beautiful descriptions (along with the residents and staff). As summer transitions into autumn, this book has become a perfect read for the season and will undoubtedly be a comfort for many. I highly recommend it.
Burdened by past mistakes, Alex Chambers arrives at Silver Springs Health and Rehabilitation Centre seeking redemption, only to find himself facing unexpected challenges. His journey of atonement takes a turn when he’s assigned to care for Mae Seasons, a sharp-tongued, unapologetic resident who quickly becomes the heart of the story. As their unlikely friendship develops, Alex begins to unravel his past and discover a new sense of hope.
“Autumn” is a beautiful comforting story that filled me with joy. Marc has crafted a narrative rich with themes of self-discovery, found family, and forgiveness. The story truly finds its rhythm around chapter four, but it’s Mae who transforms the reading experience. Her character is wonderfully reminiscent of Estelle from “Golden Girls”—grouchy, a little insane, but filled with wisdom. Mae’s dynamic presence not only carries the story but also makes Alex’s journey of self-discovery deeply engaging.
Silver Springs, the setting of the novel, is a character in its own right, brought to life with vivid and beautiful descriptions (along with the residents and staff). As summer transitions into autumn, this book has become a perfect read for the season and will undoubtedly be a comfort for many. I highly recommend it.
August 23, 2025
🍁“Between Two Seasons is a poignant tale of forgiveness, redemption, and the transformative power of human connection. It reminds us that, no matter of our past mistakes or present struggles, live and friendship can bloom in the unlikeliest of places, bringing light to even the darkest corners of our lives.”
The story follows Alex, as he begins a stint as a volunteer at Silver Springs Health and Rehab Centre, in hopes to move forward with his life and make amends for something he did in his past. He is paired with a quick witted, foul mouthed 91year old woman named Mae. The unlikely friendship that blooms between them, in between the dry wit and banter, is truly beautiful. True friends are the rare people who come to find you in a dark place and lead you back to the light. This was Mae for Alex.
This book gave me all the feels - was a lovely reminder to let go of the past and make space for new beginnings.
Thank you, Marc, for trusting me with your beautiful book in exchange for an honest review. I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a heartwarming and uplifting read.
The story follows Alex, as he begins a stint as a volunteer at Silver Springs Health and Rehab Centre, in hopes to move forward with his life and make amends for something he did in his past. He is paired with a quick witted, foul mouthed 91year old woman named Mae. The unlikely friendship that blooms between them, in between the dry wit and banter, is truly beautiful. True friends are the rare people who come to find you in a dark place and lead you back to the light. This was Mae for Alex.
This book gave me all the feels - was a lovely reminder to let go of the past and make space for new beginnings.
Thank you, Marc, for trusting me with your beautiful book in exchange for an honest review. I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a heartwarming and uplifting read.
September 19, 2025
Between Two Seasons by Marc McDonald is a fiction about Alex, who is our MC who tells our story, aka his story. His dialogue is very well written, the story is engaging for anyone reading this book. We learn how Alex ends up in Silver Springs which is an interesting story. We also learn about Mae and she has such an amazingly great backstory. Alex goes to the Silver Springs Rehabilation Centre and trying to help out the people there. He meets Mae who is a resident who says what she thinks and speaks plainly and honestly. I love their banter back and forth. Also the underlying message that people can be forgiven and forgive others and that all important human connection is so important to us all. I loved this emotionally charged read and this was a great story overall with well written characters and also a great story!
November 2, 2025
"It was December 21, the first day of winter. It had taken me four months—well, sixteen years, actually—but I had finally said goodbye to Autumn."
Wow, what a play on words.
I really enjoyed this read and found Mae and Alex to both be complex characters. The lesson of living your life while still holding space for lost loved ones is an important one, in my opinion. I loved the found family aspect, and the friendship that grew between Mae and Alex was so heartwarming. Even if Mae was a bit harsh sometimes, she always told Alex what he needed to hear. The setting was idyllic - I could easily picture a beautiful assisted living resort in the Canadian mountains, with crisp white snow on the trees and ground. The author did a great job at placing you in the setting.
The writing was a bit verbose and overly descriptive at times. Sometimes, Alex spoke in a way that felt overly formal. Because of this, I felt that the pacing dragged a bit in the middle. Still, I thoroughly enjoyed this read.
But how dare the author make me believe that Mae had died!!!
Wow, what a play on words.
I really enjoyed this read and found Mae and Alex to both be complex characters. The lesson of living your life while still holding space for lost loved ones is an important one, in my opinion. I loved the found family aspect, and the friendship that grew between Mae and Alex was so heartwarming. Even if Mae was a bit harsh sometimes, she always told Alex what he needed to hear. The setting was idyllic - I could easily picture a beautiful assisted living resort in the Canadian mountains, with crisp white snow on the trees and ground. The author did a great job at placing you in the setting.
The writing was a bit verbose and overly descriptive at times. Sometimes, Alex spoke in a way that felt overly formal. Because of this, I felt that the pacing dragged a bit in the middle. Still, I thoroughly enjoyed this read.
But how dare the author make me believe that Mae had died!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2025
Not only did I love this book in its entirety, but it was made even more special by its ability to actually transport its readers right there into the story.
The imagery was so descriptive and vivid that you didn’t just understand the novel’s setting and the characters feelings, you were immersed in them.
Marc’s characters were beautifully flawed in a way that made them not only highly relatable but also highly entertaining. The motley crew cast, despite their vast differences, fit together in a way that complemented the story and drove the plot forward in a highly enjoyable and realistic way. In turn, making you laugh, cry, and root for Alex and Mae (even Phil and Susanne too) to find their own happy endings.
Can’t wait to read more from Marc!
The imagery was so descriptive and vivid that you didn’t just understand the novel’s setting and the characters feelings, you were immersed in them.
Marc’s characters were beautifully flawed in a way that made them not only highly relatable but also highly entertaining. The motley crew cast, despite their vast differences, fit together in a way that complemented the story and drove the plot forward in a highly enjoyable and realistic way. In turn, making you laugh, cry, and root for Alex and Mae (even Phil and Susanne too) to find their own happy endings.
Can’t wait to read more from Marc!
August 23, 2025
This book sent me back to nostalgic days. Reminding me closely of Tuesdays with Morrie, Between Two Seasons boats a charming story that is perfect for anyone looking to cozy up with a book on a chilly or even rainy weekend. This breathtaking tale of healing and self love that will leave you feeling like you’ve just inhaled a crisp fall breeze.
It’s a masterpiece of writing that will have you laughing one minute, crying the next, and closing the pages ready to take on your next chapter of life.
I encourage everyone to open this book!
It’s a masterpiece of writing that will have you laughing one minute, crying the next, and closing the pages ready to take on your next chapter of life.
I encourage everyone to open this book!
October 9, 2025
4.5 Stars 🇨🇦
I am sobbing writing this review after just finishing this funny, beautiful, heart breaking, thought provoking, all of the things book. I don't think I'll ever forget Mae or the lessons MacDonald weaves throughout. Mae will have you cackling, wanting to play drinking games and causing mischief while also learning what it is to love and live. Alex was also a well thought out character who you just can't help but love. I highly recommend this book!
I am sobbing writing this review after just finishing this funny, beautiful, heart breaking, thought provoking, all of the things book. I don't think I'll ever forget Mae or the lessons MacDonald weaves throughout. Mae will have you cackling, wanting to play drinking games and causing mischief while also learning what it is to love and live. Alex was also a well thought out character who you just can't help but love. I highly recommend this book!
September 15, 2025
A quietly beautiful, healing story. The characters were infuriating and lovable, and the writing had me laughing and crying. I loved this book.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews