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Seasons of the East Coast #4
Our Final Winter
I know he hates this as much as I do.
So why does he do it?
There’s no such thing as the perfect marriage—but Rachel and Karan were as close as it gets. Or they were… right up until Karan’s parents moved in nearby. Overnight, what had been a mildly overbearing relationship becomes utterly suffocating.
At his mother’s insistence, Karan leaves his dream job for a higher-paying position. But now, between the long hours at his new job, and his mother’s constant calls over trivial concerns, Rachel barely sees her husband. And when she does, she feels their once-solid connection fraying.
When a disastrous holiday with Karan’s extended family sees the cracks between the couple go from rift to canyon, Karan must prove that he wants to fight for Rachel and their children.
Because even the strongest of relationships can crumble...but it’s how you pick up the pieces that counts.
So why does he do it?
There’s no such thing as the perfect marriage—but Rachel and Karan were as close as it gets. Or they were… right up until Karan’s parents moved in nearby. Overnight, what had been a mildly overbearing relationship becomes utterly suffocating.
At his mother’s insistence, Karan leaves his dream job for a higher-paying position. But now, between the long hours at his new job, and his mother’s constant calls over trivial concerns, Rachel barely sees her husband. And when she does, she feels their once-solid connection fraying.
When a disastrous holiday with Karan’s extended family sees the cracks between the couple go from rift to canyon, Karan must prove that he wants to fight for Rachel and their children.
Because even the strongest of relationships can crumble...but it’s how you pick up the pieces that counts.
355 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 5, 2026
About the author
Charlène Boutin
9 books47 followersCharlène Boutin writes swoon-worthy stories that will make you laugh, cry, but most of all, warm your heart.
Originally from Val-d’Or, Québec (Canada), she spent 6 years in Red Lake, Ontario and 6 more years in Montréal, Québec, which has given her fodder for both small-town AND city-driven love stories. She now lives in Granby, Québec, with her partner, son, and cat.
When she’s not reading or writing, you’ll find her boulder climbing or spending quality time with her family.
Originally from Val-d’Or, Québec (Canada), she spent 6 years in Red Lake, Ontario and 6 more years in Montréal, Québec, which has given her fodder for both small-town AND city-driven love stories. She now lives in Granby, Québec, with her partner, son, and cat.
When she’s not reading or writing, you’ll find her boulder climbing or spending quality time with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
February 7, 2026
Good story.
Marriage in crisis. No cheating.
Interracial relationship so different expectations of things which causes issues with his family esp mother.
HEA.
Marriage in crisis. No cheating.
Interracial relationship so different expectations of things which causes issues with his family esp mother.
HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2025
Charlene sure knows how to lure you into her books. A story of families full of love, drama, divide and struggles. A couple working to stand up for themselves despite differing upbringings and working hard to save their marriage. Karan and Rachel fell in love with each other and life was great. Introduce two kids, new jobs, meddling parents and the stress of life and you’ve got a whole new list of problems to work through. These two did not have it easy but they had a foundation of love. Rachel had to work hard to bring Karan back into her life as her partner and make him realize he was in charge of his future and not his parents. I’m not sure how they did it but they overcame quite a bit together. This book is so relatable in many aspects and I loved watching how they navigated each challenge.
March 8, 2026
Some breakups don’t happen all at once. They happen slowly, through silence, distance, and the quiet feeling of no longer being seen.
I put this one off for a while because I knew it was going to be emotional, and I was right. I cried through a good portion of this book. If you’ve ever experienced a slow breakup, where things don’t explode but instead quietly fade until you barely recognize the relationship anymore, this story will hit you hard.
This entire series has been so good that reading it feels like sitting down with old friends. We met Rachel and Karan earlier in the series, fell in love with their solid relationship, and saw glimpses of their struggles, but being with them through this part of their story absolutely broke my heart. Their marriage is struggling, not because of cheating or one dramatic betrayal, but because of something more subtle and painfully real: a lack of communication and a slow loss of truly seeing and being present for one another.
I felt deeply for both Karan and Rachel. Karan carries so many expectations on his shoulders and was raised to believe that his worth comes from meeting everyone else's needs, never really learning how to prioritize himself. Rachel, on the other hand, has spent her life feeling responsible for everyone and rarely being chosen first. When it seems like Karan stops choosing her too, her whole world begins to unravel. Together, they must decide whether they’re willing to fight for their family or allow outside pressures to pull them apart. What makes this story so compelling is that you truly understand both sides. You understand why Karan is struggling, and you understand Rachel’s need to finally feel seen. I was completely invested in their relationship and desperately rooting for them to find their way back to each other.
Charlene’s writing always captivates me. She has such a gift for creating characters who are deeply likable despite their very real flaws. They’re emotional, messy, and imperfect, but that’s exactly what makes them feel so real. You end up caring about them the way you would about your own friends, and for a little while, they are your friends. The emotional journey Charlene has taken readers on throughout this series has been incredible. And when I say I cried through this book, I mean it. I was in tears for at least 60% of it. They do get their happy ending, and I must say, the "you do not get to talk to my wife like that", moment had me feeling all sorts of feels for Karan.
This was a beautiful and emotional way to close out the Seasons of the East Coast series, and I can’t wait to see what Charlene writes next.
Thank you to the author for an eARC of this novel.
I put this one off for a while because I knew it was going to be emotional, and I was right. I cried through a good portion of this book. If you’ve ever experienced a slow breakup, where things don’t explode but instead quietly fade until you barely recognize the relationship anymore, this story will hit you hard.
This entire series has been so good that reading it feels like sitting down with old friends. We met Rachel and Karan earlier in the series, fell in love with their solid relationship, and saw glimpses of their struggles, but being with them through this part of their story absolutely broke my heart. Their marriage is struggling, not because of cheating or one dramatic betrayal, but because of something more subtle and painfully real: a lack of communication and a slow loss of truly seeing and being present for one another.
I felt deeply for both Karan and Rachel. Karan carries so many expectations on his shoulders and was raised to believe that his worth comes from meeting everyone else's needs, never really learning how to prioritize himself. Rachel, on the other hand, has spent her life feeling responsible for everyone and rarely being chosen first. When it seems like Karan stops choosing her too, her whole world begins to unravel. Together, they must decide whether they’re willing to fight for their family or allow outside pressures to pull them apart. What makes this story so compelling is that you truly understand both sides. You understand why Karan is struggling, and you understand Rachel’s need to finally feel seen. I was completely invested in their relationship and desperately rooting for them to find their way back to each other.
Charlene’s writing always captivates me. She has such a gift for creating characters who are deeply likable despite their very real flaws. They’re emotional, messy, and imperfect, but that’s exactly what makes them feel so real. You end up caring about them the way you would about your own friends, and for a little while, they are your friends. The emotional journey Charlene has taken readers on throughout this series has been incredible. And when I say I cried through this book, I mean it. I was in tears for at least 60% of it. They do get their happy ending, and I must say, the "you do not get to talk to my wife like that", moment had me feeling all sorts of feels for Karan.
This was a beautiful and emotional way to close out the Seasons of the East Coast series, and I can’t wait to see what Charlene writes next.
Thank you to the author for an eARC of this novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2026
A difficult theme to narrate, how do you make a marriage work when your relationship is not on solid ground? Karan and Rachel have been married for a while, they have two boys, they are struggling. He is dealing with mental health, she doesn't know how to make his family back off. He's got cultural differences and filial obligations she doesn't understand.
We get to see a not so perfect story of redemption and healing. Will they choose their family, or will the external factors win to separate them? Charlene writes deeply flawed characters who feel solid and intense. I felt the emotions they were feeling.
If you like not too perfect romance stories, where the MCs are mature and flawed, who reflect real human emotions, this is your book. The last book of the series, it closes the story arc in the epilogue.
We get to see a not so perfect story of redemption and healing. Will they choose their family, or will the external factors win to separate them? Charlene writes deeply flawed characters who feel solid and intense. I felt the emotions they were feeling.
If you like not too perfect romance stories, where the MCs are mature and flawed, who reflect real human emotions, this is your book. The last book of the series, it closes the story arc in the epilogue.
January 4, 2026
I have to say that I was mad at Karan from chapter one. I’ve found myself in that kind of situation too where everyone else’s needs and wants came before the relationship. So to say I was hooked and curious to see how this relationship would unfold is an understatement. Their relationship troubles and all the drama that unfolded were portrayed very well in this story. When a relationship is built on a solid foundation, then it has the opportunity to overcome all the struggles and hurdles life throws its way. It’s definitely not easy and I was able to relate to this story on so many levels. I rate this story 5 stars. Definitely recommend it and it’s yet another book by Charlène Boutin that did not disappoint.
***I received this book in exchange for an honest review***
***I received this book in exchange for an honest review***
January 28, 2026
This book was chef’s kiss!
The fight between the main characters was so well written that I was fully invested! Taking sides, questioning everyone’s life choices and then five pages later I was back to loving them both.
That takes real talent. You need to be a really good writer to make readers feel that much emotions that hard, and still keep you rooting for the characters.
I loved everything about this book, and the ending was the perfect closure for this series.
Highly recommend.
The fight between the main characters was so well written that I was fully invested! Taking sides, questioning everyone’s life choices and then five pages later I was back to loving them both.
That takes real talent. You need to be a really good writer to make readers feel that much emotions that hard, and still keep you rooting for the characters.
I loved everything about this book, and the ending was the perfect closure for this series.
Highly recommend.
January 22, 2026
I feel like the Seasons of the East Coast characters have become like family to me at this point, and Our Final Winter was an incredible end to this wonderful series.
Thank you to Charlène Boutin for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of Our Final Winter.
Thank you to Charlène Boutin for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of Our Final Winter.
February 7, 2026
3.5 Stars
I’m drawn to stories that explore the struggles of marriage, and Our Final Winter does this beautifully. It honestly portrays the many pressures that weigh on a relationship—family, work, finances, and everything in between—and shows how it’s rarely just one thing that causes strain.
I’ve enjoyed this series from Charlene Boutin, and this installment continues to deliver emotional depth and realism. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this eARC.
I’m drawn to stories that explore the struggles of marriage, and Our Final Winter does this beautifully. It honestly portrays the many pressures that weigh on a relationship—family, work, finances, and everything in between—and shows how it’s rarely just one thing that causes strain.
I’ve enjoyed this series from Charlene Boutin, and this installment continues to deliver emotional depth and realism. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this eARC.
February 19, 2026
Notes for me
Karan.- half Punjabi and half Canadian
Rachel
Married with twins sons
His parents depend on him too much especially mom.
Karan.- half Punjabi and half Canadian
Rachel
Married with twins sons
His parents depend on him too much especially mom.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
March 12, 2026
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Oh I loved it. Sometimes our priorities mess with our head. And sometimes our family over steps no loved how they worked through it together.
Oh I loved it. Sometimes our priorities mess with our head. And sometimes our family over steps no loved how they worked through it together.
March 8, 2026
Karan and Rachel
Great story. Rounded. Relatable.
I love both Rachel and Karan.
Felt sorry for poor Karan pull in all directions by his parents and wife and forced to gave up his dreams for his family.
Rachel was a great wife. Understanding. I wouldn't have been so careful with my language with the mother in law after what she pulled. Thankfully Karan made tge right choice and chose his wife and children.
Highly recommended
Great story. Rounded. Relatable.
I love both Rachel and Karan.
Felt sorry for poor Karan pull in all directions by his parents and wife and forced to gave up his dreams for his family.
Rachel was a great wife. Understanding. I wouldn't have been so careful with my language with the mother in law after what she pulled. Thankfully Karan made tge right choice and chose his wife and children.
Highly recommended
January 16, 2026
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The final book in the Seasons of the East Coast is coming and I swear to god you aren’t going to want to miss this one!!
This romance is a bit different from the other ones I’ve typically read. The story is based around a couple who’ve been married and have two boys. The struggles of family starts to really put a weight on Karan and Rachel’s relationship. The breaking point is near and Rachel sure that there will be a way to save it.
This book was so addicting that I couldn’t stop once I started. This was my favourite in the series.
The final book in the Seasons of the East Coast is coming and I swear to god you aren’t going to want to miss this one!!
This romance is a bit different from the other ones I’ve typically read. The story is based around a couple who’ve been married and have two boys. The struggles of family starts to really put a weight on Karan and Rachel’s relationship. The breaking point is near and Rachel sure that there will be a way to save it.
This book was so addicting that I couldn’t stop once I started. This was my favourite in the series.
March 22, 2026
Rachel and Karan met in college 14 years ago. They married 7 years ago. They have two young boys.
Rachel was raised by abusive parents. She has a brother and sister, and all 3 siblings have gone no contact with the parents.
Karan was raised by an Indian father and Québécoise mother. Both parents, but especially the father, drilled into Karan that he must always put his parents first, respect them, and take care of them.
He went to work for Ubisoft as a game developer, which he was good at, but his parents never saw it as a "real job." They pressured him to work at a software start up, to make more money, and he has been there about a year.
The main conflict in the marriage is that Karan is a mama's boy. Usually in these stories, the man is paying more attention to OW, but in this case, he pays more attention to his mom.
The story begins with them going out to karaoke with their friend group, but Karan bails on them to go help his mommy with her internet connection. Not the first canceled plans. In fact, when he switched jobs he did it without even talking to Rachel. He acts unilaterally so often, that when her sister needs a place to live, Rachel moves her in without asking Karan, because Karan does it so often to Rachel.
JNMIL makes plans for them to spend Christmas at the family cabin, in Newfoundland, and for them to take the ferry, which is overnight, instead of a direct flight to Newfoundland. Karan bales on them to work while they're on the ferry, so Rachel is there trying to wrangle 2 kids, and the only help is her JNMIL, who undermines everything she says. So during this trip to hell, Rachel decides to tell Karan she wants a divorce when they get back home. (Karan shows up at the cabin a few days later.)
But Rachal ends up not even being able to wait till they get home because her JNMIL is being such a c u next Tuesday. She tells him she's done while they're still at the family cabin. They take a little getaway, away from the family cabin, so they can talk alone for a couple of days. He agrees to counseling. Rachel's feeling optimistic when they return to the family cabin.
Rachel's abusive upbringing traumatized her and her sister. Rachel's been able to manage it with a lot of therapy. The sister is more disabled by it. This will become important in a minute.
When Karan and Rachel get back to the family cabin, JNMIL has disciplined the kids. Rachel tries to tell her calmly that she doesn't agree with the method of discipline. JNMIL freaks out on her, which causes Rachel to dissociate and while she's screaming at JNMIL, because of her abusive past. This time, Karan realizes he should trust Rachel, that his mother must have done something to cause this episode, because Rachel doesn't usually have episodes. So, he takes Rachel and the kids home.
He also calls his boss and quits his job. But what he tells Rachel is, "I quit that job you hate." That's an accusatory tone, like she's being blamed for making him quit. So that kind of fucks things up.
But then her brother's wife accuses her of controlling Karan, too. Like, the original job he had at Ubisoft, she had encouraged him to take that job instead of indie game development, because she was pregnant. So she has to let go of doing everything for everyone, like moving her sister in when there are actually other resources.
Rachel was raised by abusive parents. She has a brother and sister, and all 3 siblings have gone no contact with the parents.
Karan was raised by an Indian father and Québécoise mother. Both parents, but especially the father, drilled into Karan that he must always put his parents first, respect them, and take care of them.
He went to work for Ubisoft as a game developer, which he was good at, but his parents never saw it as a "real job." They pressured him to work at a software start up, to make more money, and he has been there about a year.
The main conflict in the marriage is that Karan is a mama's boy. Usually in these stories, the man is paying more attention to OW, but in this case, he pays more attention to his mom.
The story begins with them going out to karaoke with their friend group, but Karan bails on them to go help his mommy with her internet connection. Not the first canceled plans. In fact, when he switched jobs he did it without even talking to Rachel. He acts unilaterally so often, that when her sister needs a place to live, Rachel moves her in without asking Karan, because Karan does it so often to Rachel.
JNMIL makes plans for them to spend Christmas at the family cabin, in Newfoundland, and for them to take the ferry, which is overnight, instead of a direct flight to Newfoundland. Karan bales on them to work while they're on the ferry, so Rachel is there trying to wrangle 2 kids, and the only help is her JNMIL, who undermines everything she says. So during this trip to hell, Rachel decides to tell Karan she wants a divorce when they get back home. (Karan shows up at the cabin a few days later.)
But Rachal ends up not even being able to wait till they get home because her JNMIL is being such a c u next Tuesday. She tells him she's done while they're still at the family cabin. They take a little getaway, away from the family cabin, so they can talk alone for a couple of days. He agrees to counseling. Rachel's feeling optimistic when they return to the family cabin.
Rachel's abusive upbringing traumatized her and her sister. Rachel's been able to manage it with a lot of therapy. The sister is more disabled by it. This will become important in a minute.
When Karan and Rachel get back to the family cabin, JNMIL has disciplined the kids. Rachel tries to tell her calmly that she doesn't agree with the method of discipline. JNMIL freaks out on her, which causes Rachel to dissociate and while she's screaming at JNMIL, because of her abusive past. This time, Karan realizes he should trust Rachel, that his mother must have done something to cause this episode, because Rachel doesn't usually have episodes. So, he takes Rachel and the kids home.
He also calls his boss and quits his job. But what he tells Rachel is, "I quit that job you hate." That's an accusatory tone, like she's being blamed for making him quit. So that kind of fucks things up.
But then her brother's wife accuses her of controlling Karan, too. Like, the original job he had at Ubisoft, she had encouraged him to take that job instead of indie game development, because she was pregnant. So she has to let go of doing everything for everyone, like moving her sister in when there are actually other resources.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2026
This is a grab bag of mental health representation
This almost read as more of a poster for ‘here are all the random mental diagnoses that exist’ and we’re hoping they’re adding 100 more so I can add it to a story in the future. This was just a hot mess.
I don’t know if his author is new or not, this is my very first book by them, but it also possibly could be the last. It got the two stars because the writing quality isn’t bad. It’s just everything else that’s in it. The female is self important and all she is is a pharmacist. I’m not trying to be a jerk, but there are a lot of pharmacists out there and she thinks she’s saving lives every day which came across as annoying.
Then you have a husband who is constantly letting her down; gaslighting her lying to her and then justifying it to himself and then preying on his wife’s history and insecurities about family. Saying things like she can’t understand what it’s like to support a parent since her parents are terrible. OK first off freak you dude because you’re a terrible human being for that and secondly, who would wanna be married to a guy like this? What, he makes you breakfast in bed and that fixes things?
They’re just wasn’t much here. She needed to leave him. I’m sorry, being married is a choice. An absolute 100% every day choice. And he chose to basically have a closer relationship with his mother than his wife. I would’ve been out of that relationship so fast and replaced him with someone better. I wasn’t happy with the happy ever after. I didn’t believe in it at all he will replace her with something else better in the future. He’s a doormat to his parents, but then he turns his wife into a doormat and I just was cringe worthy.
This almost read as more of a poster for ‘here are all the random mental diagnoses that exist’ and we’re hoping they’re adding 100 more so I can add it to a story in the future. This was just a hot mess.
I don’t know if his author is new or not, this is my very first book by them, but it also possibly could be the last. It got the two stars because the writing quality isn’t bad. It’s just everything else that’s in it. The female is self important and all she is is a pharmacist. I’m not trying to be a jerk, but there are a lot of pharmacists out there and she thinks she’s saving lives every day which came across as annoying.
Then you have a husband who is constantly letting her down; gaslighting her lying to her and then justifying it to himself and then preying on his wife’s history and insecurities about family. Saying things like she can’t understand what it’s like to support a parent since her parents are terrible. OK first off freak you dude because you’re a terrible human being for that and secondly, who would wanna be married to a guy like this? What, he makes you breakfast in bed and that fixes things?
They’re just wasn’t much here. She needed to leave him. I’m sorry, being married is a choice. An absolute 100% every day choice. And he chose to basically have a closer relationship with his mother than his wife. I would’ve been out of that relationship so fast and replaced him with someone better. I wasn’t happy with the happy ever after. I didn’t believe in it at all he will replace her with something else better in the future. He’s a doormat to his parents, but then he turns his wife into a doormat and I just was cringe worthy.
April 18, 2026
My Rating:
5⭐️ 1🌶️
Tropes:
🎄 Christmas vibes
🫂Found Family
😏Force proximity
🫶Marriage in trouble
💪Never talked to my wife like that energy
🏔️Weekend getaway
⭐️Holiday drama
😰Angst
My Review
Our Final Winter by Charlene Boutin is an absolutely beautiful and unforgettable read, and a perfect addition to book 4 of the Seasons of the East Coast series. From the very first page, I was completely pulled back into the world Charlene has crafted so thoughtfully throughout this series.
This book is emotional, atmospheric, and deeply moving. The winter setting adds such a powerful layer to the story—it feels quiet, reflective, and raw, mirroring the emotions of the characters in the most natural way. Charlene Boutin has a true gift for storytelling; her writing is heartfelt, vivid, and effortlessly immersive. You don’t just read this book—you feel it. ❄️💙
What I love most is how this story builds on everything that came before while still standing strong on its own. The character development is beautiful, the relationships feel real and earned, and every moment carries weight. It’s the kind of book that stays with you long after you turn the final page.
Charlene Boutin is an amazing author, and Our Final Winter truly showcases her talent, heart, and ability to connect with readers. This series has been such a journey, and this installment is nothing short of incredible.
5⭐️ 1🌶️
Tropes:
🎄 Christmas vibes
🫂Found Family
😏Force proximity
🫶Marriage in trouble
💪Never talked to my wife like that energy
🏔️Weekend getaway
⭐️Holiday drama
😰Angst
My Review
Our Final Winter by Charlene Boutin is an absolutely beautiful and unforgettable read, and a perfect addition to book 4 of the Seasons of the East Coast series. From the very first page, I was completely pulled back into the world Charlene has crafted so thoughtfully throughout this series.
This book is emotional, atmospheric, and deeply moving. The winter setting adds such a powerful layer to the story—it feels quiet, reflective, and raw, mirroring the emotions of the characters in the most natural way. Charlene Boutin has a true gift for storytelling; her writing is heartfelt, vivid, and effortlessly immersive. You don’t just read this book—you feel it. ❄️💙
What I love most is how this story builds on everything that came before while still standing strong on its own. The character development is beautiful, the relationships feel real and earned, and every moment carries weight. It’s the kind of book that stays with you long after you turn the final page.
Charlene Boutin is an amazing author, and Our Final Winter truly showcases her talent, heart, and ability to connect with readers. This series has been such a journey, and this installment is nothing short of incredible.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is my honest review of Our Final Winter
This was a proper emotional roller coaster. If you love a romance with emotional depth, drama, and healing then this is for you!
I absolutely hated the MMC for the first quarter of the book, until you start to understand him from his POV and you realise you are in for a ride!
My tissue box was firmly planted next to me throughout this book and there were both angry and happy tears. I felt so much for both MC’s and their struggles with parental issues and boundaries. This truly makes you reflect on your own life if you have been or are going through something similar.
There is some spice with a specific hot tub scene, but I must say, I prefer the shower scene 😉
My absolute favourite part was the ”Never talk to my wife like that” moment!
I recommend this for readers who love big emotions and who like to cry at the hard parts and celebrate at the good parts.
Thank you Charlène Boutin for this ARC
What to expect:
💙Marriage in Trouble
❄️Forced Proximity
💙Weekend Getaway
❄️Holiday Drama
💙Found Family
❄️Hot Tub
💙Angst
❄️”Never Talk To My Wife Like That”
💙Dual POV
❄️Multiple Timelines
This is my honest review of Our Final Winter
This was a proper emotional roller coaster. If you love a romance with emotional depth, drama, and healing then this is for you!
I absolutely hated the MMC for the first quarter of the book, until you start to understand him from his POV and you realise you are in for a ride!
My tissue box was firmly planted next to me throughout this book and there were both angry and happy tears. I felt so much for both MC’s and their struggles with parental issues and boundaries. This truly makes you reflect on your own life if you have been or are going through something similar.
There is some spice with a specific hot tub scene, but I must say, I prefer the shower scene 😉
My absolute favourite part was the ”Never talk to my wife like that” moment!
I recommend this for readers who love big emotions and who like to cry at the hard parts and celebrate at the good parts.
Thank you Charlène Boutin for this ARC
What to expect:
💙Marriage in Trouble
❄️Forced Proximity
💙Weekend Getaway
❄️Holiday Drama
💙Found Family
❄️Hot Tub
💙Angst
❄️”Never Talk To My Wife Like That”
💙Dual POV
❄️Multiple Timelines
Review of advance copy received from Author
Our Final Winter by Canadian indie author Charlène Boutin is the fourth and final book in Boutin's Seasons of the East Coast series. It is an angsty, marriage in trouble, forced proximity romance.
💙 Putting your family first vs putting your needs/wants/responsibilities first
💙 Mental health and therapy rep
💙 Character growth and understanding
💙 Canadian settings: Quebec and Newfoundland.
"Because even the strongest of relationships can crumble...but it’s how you pick up the pieces that counts."
I enjoyed Our Final Winter. It felt real and relatable. I really appreciate how Boutin writes the difficult topics of romances and the truth of the overwhelm of motherhood, not just in this book but the whole series. Be sure to have tissues close by.
Having the present-day story of Rachel and Karan juxtaposed to their past allowed me to feel for the characters and want what was best for them and their family. Getting both Rachel and Karan's points of view also added to all the complexities and pressures of these individuals and this relationship. I could see and feel multiple different possible endings. Their HEA was hard earned.
The epilogue of this book nicely closed this series. It was wonderful to see where all the characters are and how they are doing. I now look forward to what Boutin will write next. And getting more glimpses of these characters.
💙 Putting your family first vs putting your needs/wants/responsibilities first
💙 Mental health and therapy rep
💙 Character growth and understanding
💙 Canadian settings: Quebec and Newfoundland.
"Because even the strongest of relationships can crumble...but it’s how you pick up the pieces that counts."
I enjoyed Our Final Winter. It felt real and relatable. I really appreciate how Boutin writes the difficult topics of romances and the truth of the overwhelm of motherhood, not just in this book but the whole series. Be sure to have tissues close by.
Having the present-day story of Rachel and Karan juxtaposed to their past allowed me to feel for the characters and want what was best for them and their family. Getting both Rachel and Karan's points of view also added to all the complexities and pressures of these individuals and this relationship. I could see and feel multiple different possible endings. Their HEA was hard earned.
The epilogue of this book nicely closed this series. It was wonderful to see where all the characters are and how they are doing. I now look forward to what Boutin will write next. And getting more glimpses of these characters.
February 8, 2026
This book addresses real relationship issues between couples and their parents.
I could truly feel Rachel's frustration and hurt when it came to the choices her spouse was making by abandoning his responsibilities to please his parents.
I can also see why Karan made the choices he made while dealing with his own parental childhood trauma.
It was refreshing to see a couple address and work through their issues. In addition, Karan taking a stand and choosing his marriage over expectation.
Going through life you never fully realize what another person has gone through to understand their complex relationships with family. How it unknowingly shapes the way you are with your own unless you choose to make an effort to change and grow above the trauma and be the change to have the family you wish you had.
This book makes you think about personal situations you have gone through which you may need some tissues for but... at the other end you also get an HEA.
I could truly feel Rachel's frustration and hurt when it came to the choices her spouse was making by abandoning his responsibilities to please his parents.
I can also see why Karan made the choices he made while dealing with his own parental childhood trauma.
It was refreshing to see a couple address and work through their issues. In addition, Karan taking a stand and choosing his marriage over expectation.
Going through life you never fully realize what another person has gone through to understand their complex relationships with family. How it unknowingly shapes the way you are with your own unless you choose to make an effort to change and grow above the trauma and be the change to have the family you wish you had.
This book makes you think about personal situations you have gone through which you may need some tissues for but... at the other end you also get an HEA.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rachel and Karan are your typical working professional couple with two kids trying to survive and keep up their relationship but family and professional pressures are pushing them apart to a breaking point over Christmas with their families. Can they still come back from this?
This book was soooo well done. Many many times it felt a little too real and too relatable and it was breathtaking. Lots of family trauma and actively trying to deal with traditional Indian values and professional pressures and all of the things. Spice was great and really showed the relationship progression and how hard it is to come back from the brink as a couple. It was really interesting to have seen the rest of the scenes that were hinted at in previous books in the series and finally get the whole story. Absolutely loved it!
This book was soooo well done. Many many times it felt a little too real and too relatable and it was breathtaking. Lots of family trauma and actively trying to deal with traditional Indian values and professional pressures and all of the things. Spice was great and really showed the relationship progression and how hard it is to come back from the brink as a couple. It was really interesting to have seen the rest of the scenes that were hinted at in previous books in the series and finally get the whole story. Absolutely loved it!
March 14, 2026
Our Final Winter fits the marriage-in-trouble trope perfectly. It explores what happens when a relationship reaches a breaking point, and whether love can survive. The problems in this marriage don’t come from one major mistake, but from many small hurts that build up over time.
The story follows Rachel and Karan as their relationship slowly unravels under the weight of miscommunication, lingering resentment, and complicated dynamics with their in-laws. Rather than focusing on the excitement of falling in love, the novel explores the more difficult journey of two people trying to find their way back to each other. Their struggles feel realistic and relatable, though at times the conflict becomes a bit repetitive.
Overall, I enjoyed it and would recommend it to readers who like stories about married couples working their way back to each other.
3.75 Stars
The story follows Rachel and Karan as their relationship slowly unravels under the weight of miscommunication, lingering resentment, and complicated dynamics with their in-laws. Rather than focusing on the excitement of falling in love, the novel explores the more difficult journey of two people trying to find their way back to each other. Their struggles feel realistic and relatable, though at times the conflict becomes a bit repetitive.
Overall, I enjoyed it and would recommend it to readers who like stories about married couples working their way back to each other.
3.75 Stars
February 14, 2026
I really loved "summer kind of love" from this author and because of that, I appreciate being on the arc list for this author but the rest of the books in the series, including this one, haven't hit the mark in the same way for me. .
This one is different, revolving around the themes of the importance of family and divorce, which was interesting but I didn't like the main characters, or their conflict resolution. It was entirely unrealistic, even for a romance novel and I hate when it is portrayed that physical connection softens women and makes them change their mind when men are assholes. No, thank you.
This one is different, revolving around the themes of the importance of family and divorce, which was interesting but I didn't like the main characters, or their conflict resolution. It was entirely unrealistic, even for a romance novel and I hate when it is portrayed that physical connection softens women and makes them change their mind when men are assholes. No, thank you.
February 14, 2026
Got dull and started dragging around the 75% mark. Skim read the rest.
I honestly don’t feel the MMC groveled enough. And then for him to throw a pity party when they get home because he stood up to his abusive parents? Blegh. I mean, I get that that’s a very realistic outcome but I’m not reading books for reality. I’m reading them to escape reality. I think (the very fake) MMC should have been stronger backboned and done more groveling at home.
I also hated how the FMC caved with one “I’m sorry. I reflected on my behavior” apology from the shitty MIL. That doesn’t make up for years of belittlement and undermining behaviors.
I honestly don’t feel the MMC groveled enough. And then for him to throw a pity party when they get home because he stood up to his abusive parents? Blegh. I mean, I get that that’s a very realistic outcome but I’m not reading books for reality. I’m reading them to escape reality. I think (the very fake) MMC should have been stronger backboned and done more groveling at home.
I also hated how the FMC caved with one “I’m sorry. I reflected on my behavior” apology from the shitty MIL. That doesn’t make up for years of belittlement and undermining behaviors.
February 26, 2026
3.5 stars (rounded up)
This wasn’t the gripping, angsty read id hoped for. Mostly because everything takes place in such a short amount of time. I wasn’t entirely sold on the MMC’s trauma (why “I am safe” became his mantra when he never seemed to have been in danger, just overwhelmed and burdened, was confusing to me). This is a VERY touchy-feely book, so if you aren’t in the right mood to sympathize with MCs who lean heavily on therapy-speak, save it for later.
I read a lot of reviews and maybe I missed it, but there is su*cidal ideation in this book. At least that’s how I read it. And I was very surprised that it wasn’t called out more beforehand.
This wasn’t the gripping, angsty read id hoped for. Mostly because everything takes place in such a short amount of time. I wasn’t entirely sold on the MMC’s trauma (why “I am safe” became his mantra when he never seemed to have been in danger, just overwhelmed and burdened, was confusing to me). This is a VERY touchy-feely book, so if you aren’t in the right mood to sympathize with MCs who lean heavily on therapy-speak, save it for later.
I read a lot of reviews and maybe I missed it, but there is su*cidal ideation in this book. At least that’s how I read it. And I was very surprised that it wasn’t called out more beforehand.
December 24, 2025
Our Final Winter by Charlene Boutin 4/5 star review
I loved the thoughtful representation of Océane, who has fibromyalgia, and her relationship with Rachel. It resonated deeply with me as someone who experiences chronic pain.
The writing, world-building, and characters were all well done. Although Karan's character was frustrating at times, his flaws played a crucial role in his growth.
The ending tied everything together nicely, with a great resolution to the conflicts and emotional growth for the characters.
Overall a great read, filled with love, emotion, and rekindling.
I loved the thoughtful representation of Océane, who has fibromyalgia, and her relationship with Rachel. It resonated deeply with me as someone who experiences chronic pain.
The writing, world-building, and characters were all well done. Although Karan's character was frustrating at times, his flaws played a crucial role in his growth.
The ending tied everything together nicely, with a great resolution to the conflicts and emotional growth for the characters.
Overall a great read, filled with love, emotion, and rekindling.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4-Star
Our Final Winter by Charlene Boutin is an emotional and heartfelt look at marriage under pressure. The story feels raw and relatable, capturing how outside influences and unmet expectations can slowly erode even the strongest relationships. Rachel and Karan’s struggles are portrayed with honesty and depth, making their journey both painful and hopeful. This was a thoughtful, moving read about love, boundaries, and the choice to fight for family that stayed with me long after the final page.
Our Final Winter by Charlene Boutin is an emotional and heartfelt look at marriage under pressure. The story feels raw and relatable, capturing how outside influences and unmet expectations can slowly erode even the strongest relationships. Rachel and Karan’s struggles are portrayed with honesty and depth, making their journey both painful and hopeful. This was a thoughtful, moving read about love, boundaries, and the choice to fight for family that stayed with me long after the final page.
May 21, 2026
short read with the conflict i was looking for (for some reason so many of my reads are marriage in trouble lol), but overall ok. I found the voices in both POVs too similar, I get why dual POV is popular but it doesn't always work for me.
Random pet peeve I have is the use of therapy speak (in books and IRL) and how many people misuse the term boundaries. The way people wield that word (even if their reasoning is valid) feels so unnatural, like just express your feelings and what you want. Having rules is ok and you don't need to sugarcoat it! anyway...
Random pet peeve I have is the use of therapy speak (in books and IRL) and how many people misuse the term boundaries. The way people wield that word (even if their reasoning is valid) feels so unnatural, like just express your feelings and what you want. Having rules is ok and you don't need to sugarcoat it! anyway...
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book made me have all the feels. As a child of divorce I loved the peek into what parents go through when debating staying a marrriage, but also as a married woman it was nice to feel validated in wanting to be your spouses number 1. I enjoyed the surprising pops of spice and how it made you feel for couple and rooted for them to fight it out. I felt the love and drive in this book more than others and was grateful for the nice wrap of all of the seasons of love characters!
February 6, 2026
This was the first I’ve read from Charlène Boutin, but it certainly won’t be the last. I was selected as an ARC reader and loved the depth of this book. The story, though sometimes painful, felt so real! I even said nooooo several times when Karan would fumble, and loved Sophie pointing out thing to Rachel that she hadn’t realized. Ultimately I cannot wait to read more from her.
March 13, 2026
Marriage in crisis
Sometimes, other’s expectations can be so strong that we forget about our hopes and dreams. This is what happens to Karan and Rachel. Family, kids, jobs, all combine to stress their life together. Yet they continue to work for each other and their kids to succeed.
Sometimes, other’s expectations can be so strong that we forget about our hopes and dreams. This is what happens to Karan and Rachel. Family, kids, jobs, all combine to stress their life together. Yet they continue to work for each other and their kids to succeed.
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