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How We Land
What Goodreads reviewers say about Anna's
"If you’re searching for book that’s both heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time, this is definitely a book you should pick up. Be prepared for tears!"
"Anna Wilk was able to convey such depth of feelings throughout this book and she truly has a gift to be able to make others literally feel with just words."
"This isn't a surface-level love story. The author digs into the raw, complicated layers of her characters—their trauma, their contradictions, their messy attempts at healing—and weaves it all into a relationship that feels achingly real."
"I felt like I was taken back to personal memories, and in some ways felt a bit healed because of how the author wrote the scenes and resolutions."
____________________________
Can we ask someone to hold us, especially when we're not sure we can hold ourselves?
She might lose flying forever.
Alicia King was born to fly. A gifted glider pilot raised on Vancouver Island, she believed she was invincible—until a near-fatal landing grounded her and left her with scars both visible and hidden. Now she wants one to overcome the fear that she will never fly again.
She doesn’t expect Paul Andersen. The calm or the storm?
Quiet and magnetic, Paul reads Bukowski, plays blues records in the dark and understands brokenness in a way no one else ever has. He offers connection without confession and intimacy without clarity. What begins as slow-burn companionship deepens into something fierce and charged with undeniable chemistry.
Then anonymous childhood photos begin appearing, images only someone close to Alicia could possess.
As Paul’s past resurfaces and love grows volatile and messy, she must is love meant to ground her—or help her take flight?
Set against the misty harbours of Nanaimo, How We Land is a reflective novel written with humour and heart, about love that heals, love that harms, and the courage it takes to begin again.
For readers of emotionally rich contemporary romance and women’s fiction.
"If you’re searching for book that’s both heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time, this is definitely a book you should pick up. Be prepared for tears!"
"Anna Wilk was able to convey such depth of feelings throughout this book and she truly has a gift to be able to make others literally feel with just words."
"This isn't a surface-level love story. The author digs into the raw, complicated layers of her characters—their trauma, their contradictions, their messy attempts at healing—and weaves it all into a relationship that feels achingly real."
"I felt like I was taken back to personal memories, and in some ways felt a bit healed because of how the author wrote the scenes and resolutions."
____________________________
Can we ask someone to hold us, especially when we're not sure we can hold ourselves?
She might lose flying forever.
Alicia King was born to fly. A gifted glider pilot raised on Vancouver Island, she believed she was invincible—until a near-fatal landing grounded her and left her with scars both visible and hidden. Now she wants one to overcome the fear that she will never fly again.
She doesn’t expect Paul Andersen. The calm or the storm?
Quiet and magnetic, Paul reads Bukowski, plays blues records in the dark and understands brokenness in a way no one else ever has. He offers connection without confession and intimacy without clarity. What begins as slow-burn companionship deepens into something fierce and charged with undeniable chemistry.
Then anonymous childhood photos begin appearing, images only someone close to Alicia could possess.
As Paul’s past resurfaces and love grows volatile and messy, she must is love meant to ground her—or help her take flight?
Set against the misty harbours of Nanaimo, How We Land is a reflective novel written with humour and heart, about love that heals, love that harms, and the courage it takes to begin again.
For readers of emotionally rich contemporary romance and women’s fiction.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2026
4 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 12, 2026
There’s something extra special about holding your very first physical ARC. Especially when it’s from an author living in Canada. This one felt personal from the start and that feeling carried all the way through.
Reading this in early spring, while the story itself unfolds in that same in-between season, made the experience feel almost immersive. Set in British Columbia, the novel is sprinkled with little Canadian touches (shoutout to TimBits!) that made it feel both familiar and comforting.
What stood out to me right away was the vulnerability of these characters. There’s a quiet openness to them that makes it easy to settle in and really feel alongside them. The interlude chapters were such a highlight. Getting those glimpses into other perspectives added so much depth to the story.
Mia? Absolute friendship goals. No notes.
The second half of the book really takes off (pun intended), but in a way that feels earned rather than overwhelming. And I loved that this story doesn’t follow a strict formula. The ending feels thoughtful and satisfying.
Having gotten to know Anna a little over the past few months, it was so special to recognize pieces of her woven into the story.
A beautiful, heartfelt debut that I’m so glad I got to experience early.
Out May 12.
Reading this in early spring, while the story itself unfolds in that same in-between season, made the experience feel almost immersive. Set in British Columbia, the novel is sprinkled with little Canadian touches (shoutout to TimBits!) that made it feel both familiar and comforting.
What stood out to me right away was the vulnerability of these characters. There’s a quiet openness to them that makes it easy to settle in and really feel alongside them. The interlude chapters were such a highlight. Getting those glimpses into other perspectives added so much depth to the story.
Mia? Absolute friendship goals. No notes.
The second half of the book really takes off (pun intended), but in a way that feels earned rather than overwhelming. And I loved that this story doesn’t follow a strict formula. The ending feels thoughtful and satisfying.
Having gotten to know Anna a little over the past few months, it was so special to recognize pieces of her woven into the story.
A beautiful, heartfelt debut that I’m so glad I got to experience early.
Out May 12.
April 16, 2026
ARC Review of How We Land by Anna Wilk-Received ARC copy from NetGalley
Star Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
I need a minute to comprehend what I just read…Anna Wilk this is a stunning debut novel!
What first drew me into this book on NetGalley was that it was described as a romance and one of the MC’s was a pilot. My boyfriend is a pilot (in training) so this book immediately intrigued me, even more so when I learned that the FMC was the pilot! Instantly hooked!
First of all, Anna’s writing style is beautiful-easy to read, rich and descriptive imagery and such a beautiful sense of atmosphere. The pacing was perfect, I absolutely flew through this book(pun intended😉)!
I loved how Anna handled the concept of trauma with the FMC-Alicia is such a vulnerable yet strong character. She is so well written, her journey is so beautiful and the way she has scars and learns to accept them as part of herself and her story, and see them as beautiful was so important.
And finally…Paul and Alicia. It’s hard to put into words their relationship. The way Paul was there at the right time and helped Alicia see herself through his eyes, to help her learn to love herself again and see herself not just as a survivor, but someone who deserved to live and want and be wanted.
Anna does such a wonderful job writing these two characters. The way I fell in love with Paul, then hated him, then learned to love him again. This was such a heartbreaking read, but such an amazing story. Not every love story ends the way we thought it would, or wanted. And sometimes the things you want most, turn out not to be the things you need the most, and that’s okay. If you’re searching for book that’s both heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time, this is definitely a book you should pick up. Be prepared for tears!
Thank you to the author, Anna Wilk, and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review and ARC this beautiful book! How We Land releases May 12, 2026.
Star Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
I need a minute to comprehend what I just read…Anna Wilk this is a stunning debut novel!
What first drew me into this book on NetGalley was that it was described as a romance and one of the MC’s was a pilot. My boyfriend is a pilot (in training) so this book immediately intrigued me, even more so when I learned that the FMC was the pilot! Instantly hooked!
First of all, Anna’s writing style is beautiful-easy to read, rich and descriptive imagery and such a beautiful sense of atmosphere. The pacing was perfect, I absolutely flew through this book(pun intended😉)!
I loved how Anna handled the concept of trauma with the FMC-Alicia is such a vulnerable yet strong character. She is so well written, her journey is so beautiful and the way she has scars and learns to accept them as part of herself and her story, and see them as beautiful was so important.
And finally…Paul and Alicia. It’s hard to put into words their relationship. The way Paul was there at the right time and helped Alicia see herself through his eyes, to help her learn to love herself again and see herself not just as a survivor, but someone who deserved to live and want and be wanted.
Anna does such a wonderful job writing these two characters. The way I fell in love with Paul, then hated him, then learned to love him again. This was such a heartbreaking read, but such an amazing story. Not every love story ends the way we thought it would, or wanted. And sometimes the things you want most, turn out not to be the things you need the most, and that’s okay. If you’re searching for book that’s both heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time, this is definitely a book you should pick up. Be prepared for tears!
Thank you to the author, Anna Wilk, and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review and ARC this beautiful book! How We Land releases May 12, 2026.
April 30, 2026
My very first ARC and wow, I have some thoughts!!
This book caught me off guard in the most emotional way.
Going into it, I expected a love story. And while there is romance, that’s not really what this book is. This is a story about survival, grief, healing, and what it looks like to keep going after your life doesn’t turn out the way you thought it would.
Alicia is such a powerful FMC. Not because she’s perfect or unbreakable, but because she keeps choosing to move forward. Even after everything, she rebuilds. She opens herself to friendship, to connection, to life again.
“You can always tell the difference between people who are fragile and people who’ve been forged through shit.”
“Nobody realizes that some people expend tremendous energy merely to be normal.”
Her journey felt raw and real. This isn’t a fairytale version of healing—it’s messy, complicated, and deeply human.
“She was treating fear like a muscle: something she was slowly training back into strength.”
I also really loved Alicia’s friendship with Mia. Watching that relationship grow from simple work chats into something deeper and more supportive felt incredibly authentic. Mia brought warmth and lightness to the story, and their dynamic was one of my favourite parts.
“Look at yourself. You’re smoking hot, you just forgot for a little while.” - Everyone needs a friend like Mia!!
This is also a heavy read. There are moments that are heartbreaking and difficult, and the author doesn’t shy away from that. I found myself crying by the end, completely overwhelmed by the emotional weight of Alicia’s journey.
The romance, for me, was complicated. It wasn’t a sweeping, idealized love story—and I think that’s the point. It shows how people can come into your life during difficult seasons, how relationships can feel real and meaningful in the moment, and how they don’t always last or turn out the way you hope.
This isn’t a traditional happily-ever-after. It’s something quieter, more grounded, and in some ways more honest.
“Stories don’t always go the way you plan—but they’re still worth telling.”
“Not everything that falls is meant to shatter, in the end.”
This book made me feel a lot. It wasn’t always easy to read, but it was impactful—and I’m really glad I stuck with it. Yeah, that kind of story happens. And it hurts. And sometimes there’s no neat resolution.
This book caught me off guard in the most emotional way.
Going into it, I expected a love story. And while there is romance, that’s not really what this book is. This is a story about survival, grief, healing, and what it looks like to keep going after your life doesn’t turn out the way you thought it would.
Alicia is such a powerful FMC. Not because she’s perfect or unbreakable, but because she keeps choosing to move forward. Even after everything, she rebuilds. She opens herself to friendship, to connection, to life again.
“You can always tell the difference between people who are fragile and people who’ve been forged through shit.”
“Nobody realizes that some people expend tremendous energy merely to be normal.”
Her journey felt raw and real. This isn’t a fairytale version of healing—it’s messy, complicated, and deeply human.
“She was treating fear like a muscle: something she was slowly training back into strength.”
I also really loved Alicia’s friendship with Mia. Watching that relationship grow from simple work chats into something deeper and more supportive felt incredibly authentic. Mia brought warmth and lightness to the story, and their dynamic was one of my favourite parts.
“Look at yourself. You’re smoking hot, you just forgot for a little while.” - Everyone needs a friend like Mia!!
This is also a heavy read. There are moments that are heartbreaking and difficult, and the author doesn’t shy away from that. I found myself crying by the end, completely overwhelmed by the emotional weight of Alicia’s journey.
The romance, for me, was complicated. It wasn’t a sweeping, idealized love story—and I think that’s the point. It shows how people can come into your life during difficult seasons, how relationships can feel real and meaningful in the moment, and how they don’t always last or turn out the way you hope.
This isn’t a traditional happily-ever-after. It’s something quieter, more grounded, and in some ways more honest.
“Stories don’t always go the way you plan—but they’re still worth telling.”
“Not everything that falls is meant to shatter, in the end.”
This book made me feel a lot. It wasn’t always easy to read, but it was impactful—and I’m really glad I stuck with it. Yeah, that kind of story happens. And it hurts. And sometimes there’s no neat resolution.
May 1, 2026
“How We Land” by Anna Wilk 💜✈️🌇🌊
📘 Format: e-book
📚 Pub Date: 05.12.26
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars
“How We Land” by Anna Wilk is a powerful thought-provoking debut novel underlining choices, and the consequences of our choices. Though my heart ached at times while reading this book, ultimately, I’m really grateful that I did!
I saved reading this book to coincide with my trip to Vancouver and the descriptions of the area in the book were so realistic that I almost expected to run into Alicia & Paul while I was out and about in Vancouver.
“How We Land” is a story about Alicia King, a young woman who was born into a family who loves flying and flying is an integral part of her identity.
An untimely glider plane crash leaves her both physically and emotionally scarred, and she needs to decide who she wants to be and what kind of a future she wants for herself. This is the story of Alicia choosing to be brave and create the life that she most desires. At times I was frustrated with Alicia (and I was even more frequently frustrated with Paul 🤭), but I loved being able to read about her personal growth.
This book was an emotional read, and more meaningful because the author, Anna, incorporated her own hearing disability into the storyline of the main character, Alicia. I loved the realistic representation of a disability and how Alicia was able to thrive in life, regardless of her lack of hearing in one ear.
Anna Wilk was able to convey such depth of feelings throughout this book and she truly has a gift to be able to make others literally feel with just words.
This is Anna Wilk’s first novel … but I highly doubt it will be her last.
Thank you to NetGalley & Anna Wilk for access to this Advance Digital Review Copy. All opinions are my own.
#HowWeLand
#AnnaWilk
#NetGalley
📘 Format: e-book
📚 Pub Date: 05.12.26
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars
“How We Land” by Anna Wilk is a powerful thought-provoking debut novel underlining choices, and the consequences of our choices. Though my heart ached at times while reading this book, ultimately, I’m really grateful that I did!
I saved reading this book to coincide with my trip to Vancouver and the descriptions of the area in the book were so realistic that I almost expected to run into Alicia & Paul while I was out and about in Vancouver.
“How We Land” is a story about Alicia King, a young woman who was born into a family who loves flying and flying is an integral part of her identity.
An untimely glider plane crash leaves her both physically and emotionally scarred, and she needs to decide who she wants to be and what kind of a future she wants for herself. This is the story of Alicia choosing to be brave and create the life that she most desires. At times I was frustrated with Alicia (and I was even more frequently frustrated with Paul 🤭), but I loved being able to read about her personal growth.
This book was an emotional read, and more meaningful because the author, Anna, incorporated her own hearing disability into the storyline of the main character, Alicia. I loved the realistic representation of a disability and how Alicia was able to thrive in life, regardless of her lack of hearing in one ear.
Anna Wilk was able to convey such depth of feelings throughout this book and she truly has a gift to be able to make others literally feel with just words.
This is Anna Wilk’s first novel … but I highly doubt it will be her last.
Thank you to NetGalley & Anna Wilk for access to this Advance Digital Review Copy. All opinions are my own.
#HowWeLand
#AnnaWilk
#NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGallery
I went into this with a lot of curiosity. The premise instantly hooked me: How We Land is set in the Pacific Northwest where we follow Alicia, a female glider-pilot who carries the emotional weight of a recent crash. I instantly knew we’d be dealing with layered characters, which is always a strong foundation.
The plot was wonderfully unexpected in a way that really elevated the pace. From the second half, I couldn’t put it down!
The sense of place was particularly well done. Descriptions of the surrounding mountains, the weather, and changing seasons added a beautiful, quiet atmosphere while mirroring the emotional arc: Alicia stepping into something new in spring, falling into something exciting in summer, and things gradually unraveling as the year shifts into colder months.
I really enjoyed the inclusion of interludes from side characters like Alicia’s best friend and family. These added so much depth, and in hindsight, I would have welcomed even more of this.
The MMC, Paul, is a wounded soul dealing with his own emotional burdens when Alicia comes into his life. I did find myself wanting more depth when it came to Paul's character, as I couldn't fully connect with him and sometimes felt frustrated with Alicia's motivations towards him/their relationship. She saw something in him that I didn't 🥲
I don't want to spoil the ending, but I will say that I was satisfied. I also thought the playlist included as bonus content was a nice touch, featuring songs the characters shared throughout the story. Great way to extend the experience beyond the final page! 🎧
Anna Wilk has a clear talent for writing beautiful prose that is readable and evocative, with layered characters, natural dialogue, and a good sense of pacing. I look forward to seeing what she writes next!
Huge thanks to Anna and NetGallery for the opportunity to read an early release copy.
Release date: May 12 2026
I went into this with a lot of curiosity. The premise instantly hooked me: How We Land is set in the Pacific Northwest where we follow Alicia, a female glider-pilot who carries the emotional weight of a recent crash. I instantly knew we’d be dealing with layered characters, which is always a strong foundation.
The plot was wonderfully unexpected in a way that really elevated the pace. From the second half, I couldn’t put it down!
The sense of place was particularly well done. Descriptions of the surrounding mountains, the weather, and changing seasons added a beautiful, quiet atmosphere while mirroring the emotional arc: Alicia stepping into something new in spring, falling into something exciting in summer, and things gradually unraveling as the year shifts into colder months.
"Rain fell in that indecisive way coastal weather does in late spring, to prove a point: not heavy enough for an umbrella, but enough to soak through your shoes."
"I woke up to sunlight slanting across an unfamiliar ceiling, pale grey, cracked faintly near the corner. A seagull cried somewhere in the distance, making the world feel too sharp and real, all at once. The rain was gone."
"I didn't even remember walking home, just the blur of cold air, almost autumn already, the ache behind my ribs, the pins and needles in my hands, and dizziness."
I really enjoyed the inclusion of interludes from side characters like Alicia’s best friend and family. These added so much depth, and in hindsight, I would have welcomed even more of this.
"As a parent, you know. You listen through the silence - and hear. The stifled sobs. The sound of her shifting too slowly in bed because of the stitches. The way the shower ran too long in the morning when she thought we weren't paying attention. Or when she flinched when the radio clicked on. In how she never quite looked out the window the same way." 💔
The MMC, Paul, is a wounded soul dealing with his own emotional burdens when Alicia comes into his life. I did find myself wanting more depth when it came to Paul's character, as I couldn't fully connect with him and sometimes felt frustrated with Alicia's motivations towards him/their relationship. She saw something in him that I didn't 🥲
I don't want to spoil the ending, but I will say that I was satisfied. I also thought the playlist included as bonus content was a nice touch, featuring songs the characters shared throughout the story. Great way to extend the experience beyond the final page! 🎧
Anna Wilk has a clear talent for writing beautiful prose that is readable and evocative, with layered characters, natural dialogue, and a good sense of pacing. I look forward to seeing what she writes next!
Huge thanks to Anna and NetGallery for the opportunity to read an early release copy.
Release date: May 12 2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Anna Wilk, what a debut novel 🥹 The writing is so beautiful—fresh, emotional, and not your typical, recycled romance style. For a debut…just so, so good.
There’s something about this story that just lingers…quietly, but deeply. This is not a light, fluffy romance. Not even close. It’s raw. It’s messy. It’s heart-wrenching.
Alicia survives a plane crash, but what follows isn’t just physical healing…it’s the emotional aftermath. The invisible scars. The slow, complicated process of finding your footing again…of learning who you are now.
She meets Paul at her new job, and what starts as emails and notes slowly turns into something more…something deeper, more complicated, and not always easy to define.
Two broken people—for very different reasons—trying to find their way through pain, heartbreak, and healing. But this isn’t a fairytale kind of healing. It’s slow. It’s uncomfortable. It’s real.
This book broke my heart… and then quietly, gently put it back together again. Not in a perfect, polished way—but in a way that feels honest.
I rooted for Alicia with my whole heart. Watching her choose herself, stand in her strength, and slowly come back to life…that was everything 🤍
And then there’s Paul… 🖤Do we love him or do we hate him? I wrestled with that the entire time. He’s dark, complicated, and at times hard to like—a tortured soul with so many unresolved pieces. You feel the weight of him in everything he says and does.
Is he the calm…or the storm?
There’s a quiet tenderness here too—acts of service, small moments, emotional vulnerability—that softens the edges just enough.
I adored this book—but at times, I wanted to throw it. It’s not easy. It’s messy and painful… but deeply meaningful.
This story explores grief, trauma, hearing loss, alcohol abuse, and what it means to rebuild yourself when everything has fallen apart.
I cannot wait to see what’s next for this author—what a talent!! ❤️
Thank you to the author, Anna Wilk, and NetGalley for the ARC of this beautiful novel in exchange for my honest thoughts!
There’s something about this story that just lingers…quietly, but deeply. This is not a light, fluffy romance. Not even close. It’s raw. It’s messy. It’s heart-wrenching.
Alicia survives a plane crash, but what follows isn’t just physical healing…it’s the emotional aftermath. The invisible scars. The slow, complicated process of finding your footing again…of learning who you are now.
She meets Paul at her new job, and what starts as emails and notes slowly turns into something more…something deeper, more complicated, and not always easy to define.
Two broken people—for very different reasons—trying to find their way through pain, heartbreak, and healing. But this isn’t a fairytale kind of healing. It’s slow. It’s uncomfortable. It’s real.
This book broke my heart… and then quietly, gently put it back together again. Not in a perfect, polished way—but in a way that feels honest.
I rooted for Alicia with my whole heart. Watching her choose herself, stand in her strength, and slowly come back to life…that was everything 🤍
And then there’s Paul… 🖤Do we love him or do we hate him? I wrestled with that the entire time. He’s dark, complicated, and at times hard to like—a tortured soul with so many unresolved pieces. You feel the weight of him in everything he says and does.
Is he the calm…or the storm?
There’s a quiet tenderness here too—acts of service, small moments, emotional vulnerability—that softens the edges just enough.
I adored this book—but at times, I wanted to throw it. It’s not easy. It’s messy and painful… but deeply meaningful.
This story explores grief, trauma, hearing loss, alcohol abuse, and what it means to rebuild yourself when everything has fallen apart.
I cannot wait to see what’s next for this author—what a talent!! ❤️
Thank you to the author, Anna Wilk, and NetGalley for the ARC of this beautiful novel in exchange for my honest thoughts!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC Review of How We Land received from NetGalley
Star rating:4.5
I really loved this book, it was both heartbreaking and healing at the same time. Anna’s writing is so beautiful, it was very descriptive, easy to follow, and fit the tune of the story wonderfully.
The characters in this book felt like real people with very relatable strengths and flaws which I feel like is hard to find in a book anymore.
Alicia may be one of my favourite FMC’s ever. She was so brave and strong even when it felt impossible. She never failed to do the hard thing and face it directly even when she was feeling less than and that was so inspiring and relatable.
Paul on the other hand, had me on an absolute rollercoaster of emotions but in the end I really could see where he was coming from and didn’t fault him for his actions throughout the book. He’s just another person trying to figure out how to live for the first time.
The side characters in this book were an absolute treat. I loved the humour both Mia and Adam brought to the book to lighten up the tough moments. Alicia’s dad was so quietly supportive and his interlude may have been my favourite chapter of the book.
I also really loved all the nods to Canadianisms throughout the book: timbits, apologizing too frequently, Winners, 12 seasons and poutine.
This was a beautiful debut novel and I cannot wait to read what comes next from Anna!
A few of my favourite quotes:
“We stood there, the three of us, in the kind of awkward warmth that comes from people who love each other but aren’t sure how to say it outright.”
“Do you always run toward chaos?” “Only is it promises to be interesting”
“Because I saw her and him, and I just couldn’t tell yet if it was real or if it was just different - if he was the storm or the eye of it. There was a difference: one took you whole and never let go, the other just delayed the wreckage.”
“I won’t be the thing that ruins you, you’ve done that just fine on your own.”
Star rating:4.5
I really loved this book, it was both heartbreaking and healing at the same time. Anna’s writing is so beautiful, it was very descriptive, easy to follow, and fit the tune of the story wonderfully.
The characters in this book felt like real people with very relatable strengths and flaws which I feel like is hard to find in a book anymore.
Alicia may be one of my favourite FMC’s ever. She was so brave and strong even when it felt impossible. She never failed to do the hard thing and face it directly even when she was feeling less than and that was so inspiring and relatable.
Paul on the other hand, had me on an absolute rollercoaster of emotions but in the end I really could see where he was coming from and didn’t fault him for his actions throughout the book. He’s just another person trying to figure out how to live for the first time.
The side characters in this book were an absolute treat. I loved the humour both Mia and Adam brought to the book to lighten up the tough moments. Alicia’s dad was so quietly supportive and his interlude may have been my favourite chapter of the book.
I also really loved all the nods to Canadianisms throughout the book: timbits, apologizing too frequently, Winners, 12 seasons and poutine.
This was a beautiful debut novel and I cannot wait to read what comes next from Anna!
A few of my favourite quotes:
“We stood there, the three of us, in the kind of awkward warmth that comes from people who love each other but aren’t sure how to say it outright.”
“Do you always run toward chaos?” “Only is it promises to be interesting”
“Because I saw her and him, and I just couldn’t tell yet if it was real or if it was just different - if he was the storm or the eye of it. There was a difference: one took you whole and never let go, the other just delayed the wreckage.”
“I won’t be the thing that ruins you, you’ve done that just fine on your own.”
April 30, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from author.
I knew I was going to like this book because it’s set in BC 🇨🇦 and the premise sounded so good. A glider pilot survives an almost fatal crash leaving her scarred, and wonders if she’ll overcome her fear of never flying again.
Then she meets Paul. Oh Paul. At first he is just what she needs to gain confidence in herself and her body after the crash. She falls for him because he is all charm and sauve and of course, it’s a mistake. He is still hung up on someone else and pushes her away when she is the most vulnerable. Personally, I got the ick from Paul right away, so I was not heartbroken he wasn’t the one for her and was happy she didn’t end up with him.
Anna Wilk writes grief and heartbreak so beautifully real - everything the FMC deals with and feels is so valid and accurate. Nothing is romanticized too much, no trying for second chances, just holding space for what occurred between them with their loss and the emotional intimacy that they were going through was such a raw part of the story that I loved. I also love her friendship with Mia, she is the best and everything a good friend should be.
And then life kept moving, as it does, and the characters’ stories continued in a way I found satisfying. Paul loves to hide behind an email, and you know what, he probably wouldn’t have been able to be as heartfelt on the fly (hah plane pun). However, I like that she didn’t answer, just accepted what he said and walked away (when he seemed to want to keep communication open). They had a shared experience and grief, but neither owes the other anything more than quietly acknowledging that, but then continuing to move on and live their lives fully without looking back.
I knew I was going to like this book because it’s set in BC 🇨🇦 and the premise sounded so good. A glider pilot survives an almost fatal crash leaving her scarred, and wonders if she’ll overcome her fear of never flying again.
Then she meets Paul. Oh Paul. At first he is just what she needs to gain confidence in herself and her body after the crash. She falls for him because he is all charm and sauve and of course, it’s a mistake. He is still hung up on someone else and pushes her away when she is the most vulnerable. Personally, I got the ick from Paul right away, so I was not heartbroken he wasn’t the one for her and was happy she didn’t end up with him.
Anna Wilk writes grief and heartbreak so beautifully real - everything the FMC deals with and feels is so valid and accurate. Nothing is romanticized too much, no trying for second chances, just holding space for what occurred between them with their loss and the emotional intimacy that they were going through was such a raw part of the story that I loved. I also love her friendship with Mia, she is the best and everything a good friend should be.
And then life kept moving, as it does, and the characters’ stories continued in a way I found satisfying. Paul loves to hide behind an email, and you know what, he probably wouldn’t have been able to be as heartfelt on the fly (hah plane pun). However, I like that she didn’t answer, just accepted what he said and walked away (when he seemed to want to keep communication open). They had a shared experience and grief, but neither owes the other anything more than quietly acknowledging that, but then continuing to move on and live their lives fully without looking back.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an early copy from the author. I was instantly pulled in by the Vancouver Island, BC setting, as it's local to me! I could feel each season of those Pacific Northwest vibes, which made for such a meaningful reading experience.
This was not your typical romance novel, and the story went differently than I expected. I actually really appreciated that. It felt more like a blend of romance and women's fiction, with a heavier emotional focus.
I loved the author's note at the beginning. It felt like she was welcoming me into the story and giving me things to think about as I read. I especially loved her note about being curious how readers feel about Paul. It stuck with me throughout, and I found myself constantly thinking about him as the story unfolded.
The story follows Alicia after a glider crash. While she has mostly physically recovered, the emotional impact lingers. Her life looks different than she imagined. She's navigating a new job while supporting her family, and as she tries to move forward, a new relationship with her colleague Paul becomes a huge part of that journey- for better and worse...
The cast is small but every character earns their place. Mia was a strong and supportive best friend, Alicia's dad was quiet and so loving, and Adam brought that funny, protective brother energy. They all added so much and made Alicia's world feel really full.
Overall, such a strong debut. I'm definitely curious to see what the author writes next.
There are content warnings I'd rather not detail to avoid spoilers. If you have specific sensitivities, I'd recommend looking them up before diving in.
This was not your typical romance novel, and the story went differently than I expected. I actually really appreciated that. It felt more like a blend of romance and women's fiction, with a heavier emotional focus.
I loved the author's note at the beginning. It felt like she was welcoming me into the story and giving me things to think about as I read. I especially loved her note about being curious how readers feel about Paul. It stuck with me throughout, and I found myself constantly thinking about him as the story unfolded.
The story follows Alicia after a glider crash. While she has mostly physically recovered, the emotional impact lingers. Her life looks different than she imagined. She's navigating a new job while supporting her family, and as she tries to move forward, a new relationship with her colleague Paul becomes a huge part of that journey- for better and worse...
The cast is small but every character earns their place. Mia was a strong and supportive best friend, Alicia's dad was quiet and so loving, and Adam brought that funny, protective brother energy. They all added so much and made Alicia's world feel really full.
Overall, such a strong debut. I'm definitely curious to see what the author writes next.
There are content warnings I'd rather not detail to avoid spoilers. If you have specific sensitivities, I'd recommend looking them up before diving in.
April 24, 2026
It would be 4.3 stars if it was allowed!
How We Land is one of those rare books that stays with you long after you turn the final page - and this may sound surprising as this is a romance, well I would call it „Dramance” :D
This isn't a surface-level love story. The author digs into the raw, complicated layers of her characters—their trauma, their contradictions, their messy attempts at healing—and weaves it all into a relationship that feels achingly real. Paul and Alicia's connection isn't built on grand gestures (rather small ones) or convenient timing; it's built on the quiet, terrifying vulnerability of letting someone truly see you. The question the novel poses—can we trust someone to hold us when we're not sure we can hold ourselves?—resonated deeply with me.
The setting is stunning and so fresh (especially after multiple UK settings in my last reads:). Vancouver Island comes alive on every page. Wilk clearly knows and loves this landscape intimately, and it shows.
The Pacific Northwest isn't just a backdrop here—it's a character in its own right, shaping the mood and mirroring the emotional seasons Alicia moves through. The aviation world adds another dimension, blending structure with freedom.
And then there's the writing style, which I really loved, and I’m picky about it! Wilk's prose is lyrical without being overwrought, intimate without being indulgent. She balances tenderness with sharp wit, and her supporting characters—especially Adam and Mia—bring warmth and levity.
A great travel read, although not so cheerful and light as you might think, beware!
How We Land is one of those rare books that stays with you long after you turn the final page - and this may sound surprising as this is a romance, well I would call it „Dramance” :D
This isn't a surface-level love story. The author digs into the raw, complicated layers of her characters—their trauma, their contradictions, their messy attempts at healing—and weaves it all into a relationship that feels achingly real. Paul and Alicia's connection isn't built on grand gestures (rather small ones) or convenient timing; it's built on the quiet, terrifying vulnerability of letting someone truly see you. The question the novel poses—can we trust someone to hold us when we're not sure we can hold ourselves?—resonated deeply with me.
The setting is stunning and so fresh (especially after multiple UK settings in my last reads:). Vancouver Island comes alive on every page. Wilk clearly knows and loves this landscape intimately, and it shows.
The Pacific Northwest isn't just a backdrop here—it's a character in its own right, shaping the mood and mirroring the emotional seasons Alicia moves through. The aviation world adds another dimension, blending structure with freedom.
And then there's the writing style, which I really loved, and I’m picky about it! Wilk's prose is lyrical without being overwrought, intimate without being indulgent. She balances tenderness with sharp wit, and her supporting characters—especially Adam and Mia—bring warmth and levity.
A great travel read, although not so cheerful and light as you might think, beware!
Review of advance copy received from Author
There were elements of this book that I appreciated. I enjoyed the latter half of the book more than the beginning.
My heart ached for Alicia with what she endured, but I also cheered her on for recognizing her internal strength. As someone who enjoyed flying and stopped due to a terrible flying collision, she knew she wanted to get back and took steps to start again.
“𝘉𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴, 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴: 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘨𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘶𝘱 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘯’𝘵.” I feel like the connection that Paul and Alicia have feels relatable to many readers. We often experience connections where they're a mirror to each other and that connection becomes a lesson. I appreciate the growth arc and seeing that develop throughout the book.
I love the work friendship that Mia and Alicia developed, and reminded me of my work friendships that I developed from my last workplace.
I feel an internal conflict as to how I should rate this book because I'm seeing many 4/5 star reviews, but I feel like the story didn't land the same way for me. Perhaps it was the writing style, because I felt more connected to the writing style when it came to reading the last email, but I felt like the general writing style felt a bit flat for me. The pacing didn’t always flow for me, but I still enjoyed many of the themes and emotional moments. 3.5 ⭐️
This book is released on May 12th- a great pick if you’re looking for stories with disability representation or ones set in Canada!
Thank you Anna Wilk and Netgalley for providing me with the opportunity to read an e-arc copy.
My heart ached for Alicia with what she endured, but I also cheered her on for recognizing her internal strength. As someone who enjoyed flying and stopped due to a terrible flying collision, she knew she wanted to get back and took steps to start again.
“𝘉𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴, 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴: 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘨𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘶𝘱 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘯’𝘵.” I feel like the connection that Paul and Alicia have feels relatable to many readers. We often experience connections where they're a mirror to each other and that connection becomes a lesson. I appreciate the growth arc and seeing that develop throughout the book.
I love the work friendship that Mia and Alicia developed, and reminded me of my work friendships that I developed from my last workplace.
I feel an internal conflict as to how I should rate this book because I'm seeing many 4/5 star reviews, but I feel like the story didn't land the same way for me. Perhaps it was the writing style, because I felt more connected to the writing style when it came to reading the last email, but I felt like the general writing style felt a bit flat for me. The pacing didn’t always flow for me, but I still enjoyed many of the themes and emotional moments. 3.5 ⭐️
This book is released on May 12th- a great pick if you’re looking for stories with disability representation or ones set in Canada!
Thank you Anna Wilk and Netgalley for providing me with the opportunity to read an e-arc copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
How We Land is a beautiful story that follows Alicia, a female glider pilot who suffered a near-fatal crash. Her physical wounds have healed, but she is scarred both physically and emotionally, leaving her to navigate things like what life looks like post-crash, what healing looks like, and the question of if she will ever fly again.
I absolutely loved this story. The Pacific Northwest atmosphere was perfectly captured, and Alicia’s character was phenomenally written. Healing from trauma is so complex, and I feel like this was so beautifully and emotionally portrayed. I also loved watching Alicia navigate her relationship with Paul, who I had a lot of mixed feelings about. He gave off a lot of red flags, but at the same time I think he was good for her in that he challenged her to see herself as strong and beautiful again, scars and all.
And speaking of the people in Alicia’s life, her support system was absolute gold. I adored Mia, who is the best friend that everyone needs in their life. I fell in love with her family as well, especially her brother Adam, who is everything you could hope for in a brother.
This was such a beautifully emotional story, and I loved both the journey and the ending. It wasn’t your typical happily ever after, but I think that made me love it more. Because what about life goes perfectly according to plan?
Thank you so much to Anna Wilk and NetGalley for the ARC of this novel! This was an excellent debut, and I look forward to seeing what the author writes next.
I absolutely loved this story. The Pacific Northwest atmosphere was perfectly captured, and Alicia’s character was phenomenally written. Healing from trauma is so complex, and I feel like this was so beautifully and emotionally portrayed. I also loved watching Alicia navigate her relationship with Paul, who I had a lot of mixed feelings about. He gave off a lot of red flags, but at the same time I think he was good for her in that he challenged her to see herself as strong and beautiful again, scars and all.
And speaking of the people in Alicia’s life, her support system was absolute gold. I adored Mia, who is the best friend that everyone needs in their life. I fell in love with her family as well, especially her brother Adam, who is everything you could hope for in a brother.
This was such a beautifully emotional story, and I loved both the journey and the ending. It wasn’t your typical happily ever after, but I think that made me love it more. Because what about life goes perfectly according to plan?
Thank you so much to Anna Wilk and NetGalley for the ARC of this novel! This was an excellent debut, and I look forward to seeing what the author writes next.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First off, kudos to Anna for a great debut, writing a story of life, love, fear, passion, bravery and everything in between. I would classify this somewhere between a romance and a women's fiction. If you know me, you know I mostly read romcoms but I do appreciate a heartfelt, raw emotional book from time to time.
Alicia is a glider pilot who has been in a flying accident that has left her not only with physical scars but internal ones as ones. She is someone who is used to open skies but now feels trapped inside her own mind and body, taking up a job to support her father and younger sibling. Then she meets Paul, who makes her feel seen and wanted in a way that she hasn't felt in sometime. Paul is someone who has his own chaos, so much so that you might end up questioning if you like him or despise him?
The story is mostly told from Alicia's PoV, and with Anna's unique prose, we deep dive into her inner workings. What added value to the story telling was the interludes which were multiple chapters at critical points in the story, told from PoV of supporting characters like Alicia's dad, her brother, and best friend. For those who enjoy jazz music, they are referenced along with playlists, sadly I am not into jazz music but it might definitely enhance the experience for many of you.
Be it, Alicia's fears and insecurities, her need to be brave for her family in the face of her losses, her resolve to heal at her own pace or be it Paul, who seemed like the man you could easily fall in love with one moment, or question your choice in the next moment, all felt so relatable (even reminding me certain real life characters I have questioned like Paul). By midway in the story, my interest mid-way and I wanted to know what happens of Alicia's HEA!
If you are someone who is looking for a women's fiction, I would definitely recommend this book. Also, shoutout to the Vancouver island setting, which definitely added to the poignant tone of the book, where it is mostly rainy, windy, chilly but makes you value every sunny day!
Thank you Anna & netgalley for gifting me an ARC for your debut book.
TW: Loss of a pregnancy (on page)
Alicia is a glider pilot who has been in a flying accident that has left her not only with physical scars but internal ones as ones. She is someone who is used to open skies but now feels trapped inside her own mind and body, taking up a job to support her father and younger sibling. Then she meets Paul, who makes her feel seen and wanted in a way that she hasn't felt in sometime. Paul is someone who has his own chaos, so much so that you might end up questioning if you like him or despise him?
The story is mostly told from Alicia's PoV, and with Anna's unique prose, we deep dive into her inner workings. What added value to the story telling was the interludes which were multiple chapters at critical points in the story, told from PoV of supporting characters like Alicia's dad, her brother, and best friend. For those who enjoy jazz music, they are referenced along with playlists, sadly I am not into jazz music but it might definitely enhance the experience for many of you.
Be it, Alicia's fears and insecurities, her need to be brave for her family in the face of her losses, her resolve to heal at her own pace or be it Paul, who seemed like the man you could easily fall in love with one moment, or question your choice in the next moment, all felt so relatable (even reminding me certain real life characters I have questioned like Paul). By midway in the story, my interest mid-way and I wanted to know what happens of Alicia's HEA!
If you are someone who is looking for a women's fiction, I would definitely recommend this book. Also, shoutout to the Vancouver island setting, which definitely added to the poignant tone of the book, where it is mostly rainy, windy, chilly but makes you value every sunny day!
Thank you Anna & netgalley for gifting me an ARC for your debut book.
TW: Loss of a pregnancy (on page)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
How We Land is a beautiful and heartwrenching story about a glider plane pilot recovering from an accident that impacted her life in so many ways. We follow her to a new job that keeps her firmly on the ground, where she meets Mia - the support she didn’t know she needed. She works near Kevin, the cactus who judges everything but checks out the hot IT guys with her. And she meets Paul, that IT guy.
The poetic writing style and the allusions to jazz all appeal to my musician’s soul. I felt like I was right there with the characters. “The Pacific dictated it’s own rhythm, teasing the land with Fool’s Spring and prolonged chills.” If you aren’t waist deep in the mire of your feelings by a few pages in, you should call for help and have them check your pulse.
“Not many things or people surprise me, and you didn’t even realize it, did you? That you did something most people don’t dare anymore. You saw me. And let me see you.
While I normally would avoid a book that doesn’t have a fairly linear path to the HEA, I will absolutely be reading whatever story Anna chooses to write next because her writing and storytelling is just that good. Anna’s author’s note at the beginning of the book says “If Alicia and Paul made you feel something real - anger, compassion, sadness, hope or even the smallest laugh - then I’m deeply grateful.” And will you ever catch the feelz from this book. Buckle up.
The poetic writing style and the allusions to jazz all appeal to my musician’s soul. I felt like I was right there with the characters. “The Pacific dictated it’s own rhythm, teasing the land with Fool’s Spring and prolonged chills.” If you aren’t waist deep in the mire of your feelings by a few pages in, you should call for help and have them check your pulse.
“Not many things or people surprise me, and you didn’t even realize it, did you? That you did something most people don’t dare anymore. You saw me. And let me see you.
While I normally would avoid a book that doesn’t have a fairly linear path to the HEA, I will absolutely be reading whatever story Anna chooses to write next because her writing and storytelling is just that good. Anna’s author’s note at the beginning of the book says “If Alicia and Paul made you feel something real - anger, compassion, sadness, hope or even the smallest laugh - then I’m deeply grateful.” And will you ever catch the feelz from this book. Buckle up.
May 12, 2026
How We Land is one of those books that's hard to put in a box. It is not a typical love story — it surprised me with unexpected twists. Yes, there is romance, but it's messy and uncertain and deeply human. This is a book about different kinds of love — romantic, platonic, family — and about what it really means to show up for the people in your life. The writing itself is light and easy to read, which makes it all the more impressive given how emotionally heavy some of the themes are.
Alicia, the main character, is hurt, lost, and struggling to find her way back to herself. I really admired her integrity and her courage — she keeps making choices for herself, even when it's hard. And slowly, despite everything she's been through, she allows herself to be vulnerable again.
The relationship I'll be thinking about longest, though, is the friendship between Alicia and her best friend Mia. It's written with so much warmth. Mia is the kind of friend who always shows up — who looks out for you, who offers help without judgement. Maybe their friendship is a little idealized, but I really liked it. It's the kind of friendship we should all strive for.
The novel is set on Vancouver Island, and the author describes the Pacific Northwest landscape beautifully — the clouds, the rain, the weight of the air. You can feel every season.
At its heart, How We Land is a story about loss, love, and finding your why. I loved this book. A stunning debut.
Alicia, the main character, is hurt, lost, and struggling to find her way back to herself. I really admired her integrity and her courage — she keeps making choices for herself, even when it's hard. And slowly, despite everything she's been through, she allows herself to be vulnerable again.
The relationship I'll be thinking about longest, though, is the friendship between Alicia and her best friend Mia. It's written with so much warmth. Mia is the kind of friend who always shows up — who looks out for you, who offers help without judgement. Maybe their friendship is a little idealized, but I really liked it. It's the kind of friendship we should all strive for.
The novel is set on Vancouver Island, and the author describes the Pacific Northwest landscape beautifully — the clouds, the rain, the weight of the air. You can feel every season.
At its heart, How We Land is a story about loss, love, and finding your why. I loved this book. A stunning debut.
May 12, 2026
What a debut novel!!!! A beautiful story about Alicia, who is a glider pilot overcoming a crash. I wasn’t sure if this story was going to be a romance, but it’s so much more than that! It’s a story about growth, learning your own truth and starting over.
It’s set in Vancouver, which is a place I’ve never been, but based on this book I would love to visit!
All the characters feel so real and I think readers can find a piece of themselves in all of them, which makes this book so great for such a variety of readers! It was funny, sad, encouraging - had me laughing and crying and I read through it so fast! I liked that love in the story wasn't limited to a physical relationship, it was also written about friendship (loved the friendship in this!!!) and family and learning who your people are, how you can lean on them and how important they are in your life.
Life is messy and unexpected and this book really captures that, making it feel relatable - I just wanted to reach in and hug the characters.
The writing was wonderful and full of a lot of quotes I will hold on to (but don’t want to put so that there are no spoilers) but I really like the writing style - I feel like you can just read the story and enjoy it as is, or really reflect on everything that is said and grow with the characters.
Can’t believe this is a debut novel!! Thank you NetGalley and Anna for a physical ARC! You’ve created such a wonderful story that will stick with its readers always!
It’s set in Vancouver, which is a place I’ve never been, but based on this book I would love to visit!
All the characters feel so real and I think readers can find a piece of themselves in all of them, which makes this book so great for such a variety of readers! It was funny, sad, encouraging - had me laughing and crying and I read through it so fast! I liked that love in the story wasn't limited to a physical relationship, it was also written about friendship (loved the friendship in this!!!) and family and learning who your people are, how you can lean on them and how important they are in your life.
Life is messy and unexpected and this book really captures that, making it feel relatable - I just wanted to reach in and hug the characters.
The writing was wonderful and full of a lot of quotes I will hold on to (but don’t want to put so that there are no spoilers) but I really like the writing style - I feel like you can just read the story and enjoy it as is, or really reflect on everything that is said and grow with the characters.
Can’t believe this is a debut novel!! Thank you NetGalley and Anna for a physical ARC! You’ve created such a wonderful story that will stick with its readers always!
Review of advance copy received from Author
“How We Land” is not a conventional romance novel. Despite its many romantic threads, it offers readers far more than just a love story. It is a story about passion, friendship, family bonds, difficult life choices, and dramatic moments that shape who we become.
After a serious incident, Alicia struggles with trauma and a deep sense of losing the meaning of life. She takes a job that may not be ambitious, but allows her to pay the bills and slowly rebuild herself. Soon, it turns out to be an important step in finding her way back to herself, as she meets her soon-to-be best friends and a mysterious IT guy who becomes the subject of office gossip and admiration while battling demons of his own.
The novel explores how both painful experiences and bright moments influence our decisions, and how the people we form relationships with can help us endure life’s hardest moments. It is also a story about learning how to emerge from crisis and about the ways people sometimes use others in order to survive their own struggles.
At some point “How we land” becomes so engaging that it is hard to put down. It surprises the reader with unexpected twists and a thoughtfully developed plot. The writing style is light and effortless, yet far from ordinary.
Last but not least, the book will make you want to visit Vancouver Island instantly!
After a serious incident, Alicia struggles with trauma and a deep sense of losing the meaning of life. She takes a job that may not be ambitious, but allows her to pay the bills and slowly rebuild herself. Soon, it turns out to be an important step in finding her way back to herself, as she meets her soon-to-be best friends and a mysterious IT guy who becomes the subject of office gossip and admiration while battling demons of his own.
The novel explores how both painful experiences and bright moments influence our decisions, and how the people we form relationships with can help us endure life’s hardest moments. It is also a story about learning how to emerge from crisis and about the ways people sometimes use others in order to survive their own struggles.
At some point “How we land” becomes so engaging that it is hard to put down. It surprises the reader with unexpected twists and a thoughtfully developed plot. The writing style is light and effortless, yet far from ordinary.
Last but not least, the book will make you want to visit Vancouver Island instantly!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Anna Wilk for this ARC! This is a huge departure from what I normally read. Prepare yourself because this is so much more than a typical, cookie-cutter romance.
Anna’s writing is a beautiful love poem to Vancouver Island and a story told through music. It’s rich, yet easy to read, with the music doing a lot of the storytelling. Additionally, the pace was unhurried.
Alicia King is a quiet force of nature. She is a mix of strength and vulnerability that draws you in. We see different sides of Alicia through her visible and invisible scars and through her incredible support circle. This character will always have a piece of my heart.
My feelings about Paul Andersen is a mixture of curiosity, compassion, dislike, and love for him. He is one of the most complex characters I’ve met!! Anna reveals a lot about Paul through music. For me, the jury’s still out in him.
What I love about this read:
🎵 Tons of music and lyrical storytelling
🇨🇦 Canadian author, set in beautiful Vancouver Island
✈️ She’s a glider pilot
❤️🩹 Starting over, healing (Physically, Emotionally), grief, trauma
🫂 Real & Found Family
🤯 PLOT TWISTS
🌅 Emotional roller coaster reading experience
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
Anna’s writing is a beautiful love poem to Vancouver Island and a story told through music. It’s rich, yet easy to read, with the music doing a lot of the storytelling. Additionally, the pace was unhurried.
Alicia King is a quiet force of nature. She is a mix of strength and vulnerability that draws you in. We see different sides of Alicia through her visible and invisible scars and through her incredible support circle. This character will always have a piece of my heart.
My feelings about Paul Andersen is a mixture of curiosity, compassion, dislike, and love for him. He is one of the most complex characters I’ve met!! Anna reveals a lot about Paul through music. For me, the jury’s still out in him.
What I love about this read:
🎵 Tons of music and lyrical storytelling
🇨🇦 Canadian author, set in beautiful Vancouver Island
✈️ She’s a glider pilot
❤️🩹 Starting over, healing (Physically, Emotionally), grief, trauma
🫂 Real & Found Family
🤯 PLOT TWISTS
🌅 Emotional roller coaster reading experience
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
May 7, 2026
Advanced copy received from NetGalley, release date May 12th, 2026!
I am on a roll lately with books that make me feel!
How We Land is an incredible journey of hurting, making mistakes, learning, growth and healing. After surviving a crash landing, glider pilot Alicia King believed she may be grounded for good. She decides to take her life in a new direction, with a comfortable office job as a way to move forward. Here she meets a new friend she didn’t know she needed, a cactus you would swear has a personality of his own, and Paul.
Alicia is a relatable character, as she learns not to prioritize the needs of others over her own, becomes comfortable in her own skin and learns to let go.
I really enjoyed this one! I think many readers can find different parts of themselves in this story. Alicia was likeable and understandable, the side characters added their own flair to the story and overall, I think this piece resonates.
I did find some points where I wished the pacing was different, as I feel some details may have felt lost during big moments, making it feel almost more like a short story in those parts.
Thank you to indie author Anna Wilk for the eARC copy and the opportunity to share my honest review.
I am on a roll lately with books that make me feel!
How We Land is an incredible journey of hurting, making mistakes, learning, growth and healing. After surviving a crash landing, glider pilot Alicia King believed she may be grounded for good. She decides to take her life in a new direction, with a comfortable office job as a way to move forward. Here she meets a new friend she didn’t know she needed, a cactus you would swear has a personality of his own, and Paul.
Alicia is a relatable character, as she learns not to prioritize the needs of others over her own, becomes comfortable in her own skin and learns to let go.
I really enjoyed this one! I think many readers can find different parts of themselves in this story. Alicia was likeable and understandable, the side characters added their own flair to the story and overall, I think this piece resonates.
I did find some points where I wished the pacing was different, as I feel some details may have felt lost during big moments, making it feel almost more like a short story in those parts.
Thank you to indie author Anna Wilk for the eARC copy and the opportunity to share my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Thank you to the author for the advanced reader copy of How We Land.
Alicia's story is one of bravery. I couldn't believe how many tough things she went through. But in an interesting way, it made me reflect on all the hard things I've been through, including one life-threatening one, and made me appreciate my own strength and bravery. What a gift!
There was an interesting cast of characters, but I feel like I can't get into them too much with spoilers. They added wonderfully to the fabric of this story, which included some found family.
For lack of a better word, this debut novel landed in a beautiful place. As I read this book, especially later in the book, I felt like I had to take a leap of faith in trusting how it would work out. Honestly, there was a point where I was pretty unconvinced it would have a happy ending, and the fact that the ending felt very believable is a feat I hope the author is proud of.
The author is right in saying it's not a traditional HEA. I would describe this book as a mix of The Simple Wild with some Colleen Hoover-esque elements. I enjoyed it, and I would definitely recommend the author's next book!
Alicia's story is one of bravery. I couldn't believe how many tough things she went through. But in an interesting way, it made me reflect on all the hard things I've been through, including one life-threatening one, and made me appreciate my own strength and bravery. What a gift!
There was an interesting cast of characters, but I feel like I can't get into them too much with spoilers. They added wonderfully to the fabric of this story, which included some found family.
For lack of a better word, this debut novel landed in a beautiful place. As I read this book, especially later in the book, I felt like I had to take a leap of faith in trusting how it would work out. Honestly, there was a point where I was pretty unconvinced it would have a happy ending, and the fact that the ending felt very believable is a feat I hope the author is proud of.
The author is right in saying it's not a traditional HEA. I would describe this book as a mix of The Simple Wild with some Colleen Hoover-esque elements. I enjoyed it, and I would definitely recommend the author's next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
I was excited to read this book for a few reasons—it's a heartwarming/heartbreaking love story by a Canadian author set on beautiful Vancouver Island. That's all I needed. So I was going in fairly blind.
Wow. I DEVOURED this book in less than 24 hours. I would never have suspected this was Anna's debut novel if I didn't already know. It is stunningly beautiful.
I love her writing style; the pacing is perfect. The FMC is mature beyond her years, probably due to her past, and has more patience and grace than I would have in her situations. I went from hesitantly loving the MMC to hating him to making peace with him. It's quite the roller coaster of emotions.
The supporting characters are wonderful, and I enjoyed the other POVs in the interlude chapters.
Be prepared for tears, more than once and for more than one reason. Anna makes it so easy to love the characters; you can't help but be moved by them.
No notes 10/10. Congratulations, Anna! I can't wait to see what you come up with next. I'll be first in line to read it.
I was excited to read this book for a few reasons—it's a heartwarming/heartbreaking love story by a Canadian author set on beautiful Vancouver Island. That's all I needed. So I was going in fairly blind.
Wow. I DEVOURED this book in less than 24 hours. I would never have suspected this was Anna's debut novel if I didn't already know. It is stunningly beautiful.
I love her writing style; the pacing is perfect. The FMC is mature beyond her years, probably due to her past, and has more patience and grace than I would have in her situations. I went from hesitantly loving the MMC to hating him to making peace with him. It's quite the roller coaster of emotions.
The supporting characters are wonderful, and I enjoyed the other POVs in the interlude chapters.
Be prepared for tears, more than once and for more than one reason. Anna makes it so easy to love the characters; you can't help but be moved by them.
No notes 10/10. Congratulations, Anna! I can't wait to see what you come up with next. I'll be first in line to read it.
netgalley
May 8, 2026⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
Thank you NetGalley and Anna Wilk for an ARC! How We Land was such an emotional and addictive read. I absolutely loved that it was set in Canada, it gave the story such a grounded, familiar feeling that made everything hit even harder. From the very beginning, I couldn’t get enough of the characters or their journey.
At its core, this story is so much about bravery and healing learning to let people in, facing the weight of the past, and finding the courage to move forward even when it’s messy and painful. The emotional moments felt genuine, and the relationship development was written with so much care and heart.
For a debut novel, Anna did an incredible job creating chemistry, vulnerability, and tension that kept me turning pages late into the night. The writing felt immersive and heartfelt without ever feeling too heavy, and I became deeply invested in the characters’ growth.
This was a beautiful debut that balanced emotion, hope, and romance so well, and I already can’t wait to see whats next.
Thank you NetGalley and Anna Wilk for an ARC! How We Land was such an emotional and addictive read. I absolutely loved that it was set in Canada, it gave the story such a grounded, familiar feeling that made everything hit even harder. From the very beginning, I couldn’t get enough of the characters or their journey.
At its core, this story is so much about bravery and healing learning to let people in, facing the weight of the past, and finding the courage to move forward even when it’s messy and painful. The emotional moments felt genuine, and the relationship development was written with so much care and heart.
For a debut novel, Anna did an incredible job creating chemistry, vulnerability, and tension that kept me turning pages late into the night. The writing felt immersive and heartfelt without ever feeling too heavy, and I became deeply invested in the characters’ growth.
This was a beautiful debut that balanced emotion, hope, and romance so well, and I already can’t wait to see whats next.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In this book of love, loss, mistakes and starting over, I think everyone can see a piece of themselves in the various characters. When we meet Alicia, our protagonist, she is incredibly broken and unsure of where she’s going to land. In her quest to make herself whole again, she meets Paul, or male main character, who treats her as someone unbroken, all the while hiding the broken pieces inside himself. Unlike many men written by women, Paul is incredibly flawed, and I most definitely wanted to punch him in the face many times. As aggravating as he is, he’s depicted as someone real and imperfect. Someone battling his own demons. While he is infuriatingly imperfect, his presence in Alicia’s life does empower her to get back on her feet and realize who her true support network is. Speaking of which, I absolutely loved her best friend Mia. Supportive without being overbearing, Mia is a best friend in the true sense of the word, always ready to offer a hand up.
A bold debut novel, I look forward to seeing what Anna Wilk writes next!
A bold debut novel, I look forward to seeing what Anna Wilk writes next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read this as an ARC and I'm so glad it found its way to me!
The way Anna Wilk writes has this wonderful rhythm to it, I found myself laughing one moment and genuinely moved the next, sometimes within the same page. Alicia and Paul feel so genuinely human that you can't help but get attached. Her writing pulls you in quietly and before you know it you're completely absorbed and the musical references throughout? Love your taste, Anna.
If you're looking for the perfect holiday read, this is it. There's something about the way Anna captures the misty, moody atmosphere of Vancouver Island that makes you feel like you're actually there, wrapped in that Pacific coast chill with a coffee in hand. I finished it in one day-I simply couldn't put it down:)
You can feel this story comes from a very real place and that's exactly why it's impossible not to connect with and believe in.
Five stars and a warm recommendation for anyone who enjoys emotionally rich contemporary fiction. I'll be first in line for whatever Anna writes next!
The way Anna Wilk writes has this wonderful rhythm to it, I found myself laughing one moment and genuinely moved the next, sometimes within the same page. Alicia and Paul feel so genuinely human that you can't help but get attached. Her writing pulls you in quietly and before you know it you're completely absorbed and the musical references throughout? Love your taste, Anna.
If you're looking for the perfect holiday read, this is it. There's something about the way Anna captures the misty, moody atmosphere of Vancouver Island that makes you feel like you're actually there, wrapped in that Pacific coast chill with a coffee in hand. I finished it in one day-I simply couldn't put it down:)
You can feel this story comes from a very real place and that's exactly why it's impossible not to connect with and believe in.
Five stars and a warm recommendation for anyone who enjoys emotionally rich contemporary fiction. I'll be first in line for whatever Anna writes next!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
How we land is a unique debut. Its start is somewhat peaceful but melancholic. Almost lyrical in the prose, making me enveloped in the feel of the story more so than the telling of it. This I think is how Paul gets away with being his Paul-y self through a good chunk of the book. A different narrative structure and I would hate him as a protagonist. It reads as a coming of age; a first love telling and the breaking and remaking of that process. While a shorter novel, Wilk will absolutely run you through the gamut of emotions throughout. It is incredibly rare for me to like a story with a romance plot line that doesn’t end in the traditional HEA, but here I appreciated the journey, the catharsis and the eventual healing. I do want to stress that trigger warnings are important and pregnancy loss is one of those for many people.
Thank you Anna Wilk for providing this ebook for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Thank you Anna Wilk for providing this ebook for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I did love this book. I loved the emotion and how it was written. I love the way the characters connected through grief and love and raw emotion, they made the story very believable.
The reason I gave this a 4 star instead of 5, was mainly the romance dynamic. While I enjoyed the emotional tension and complexity between Alicia and Paul, I struggled to believe that Alicia would realistically fall in love with him during that particular stage of her recovery and life. I questioned the timing more than the connection itself.
I appreciated that the relationship wasn’t overly polished, it felt messy, human, and emotionally complicated that made the story stand out from most romances.
Overall, this was a story with strong emotional depth, layered characters, and a beautiful romance! Plus, I loved the setting of course!!
The reason I gave this a 4 star instead of 5, was mainly the romance dynamic. While I enjoyed the emotional tension and complexity between Alicia and Paul, I struggled to believe that Alicia would realistically fall in love with him during that particular stage of her recovery and life. I questioned the timing more than the connection itself.
I appreciated that the relationship wasn’t overly polished, it felt messy, human, and emotionally complicated that made the story stand out from most romances.
Overall, this was a story with strong emotional depth, layered characters, and a beautiful romance! Plus, I loved the setting of course!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Where do I even start? First, the writing is absolutely beautiful. The imagery is so vivid and painted such a beautiful picture of the landscapes! I also love the descriptions of characters and their feelings. The word choice was top notch and felt deep and achingly emotional. Second, I felt so many emotions throughout this book. Joy, anger, sorrow...what a ride. Some parts (no spoilers here) really tugged on my heart strings because of shared experiences. I felt like I was taken back to personal memories, and in some ways felt a bit healed because of how the author wrote the scenes and resolutions. Lastly, I loved the ending. I love the growth, I love the joy, I love the tenderness! Really well done!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I can't believe that How We Land is a debut novel, it was fantastic! I loved that the protagonist was a glider pilot which is such a refreshing change to many other contemporary stories. But what I loved most was that this wasn't a traditional romance novel with the typical romance formula... it was real and raw in the best ways. I don't want to say too much and spoil anything but that was again such a refreshing and adult take on contemporary romance. I look forward to whatever Anna writes next!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an advance reader copy (ARC) of the book before it was officially published!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an advance reader copy (ARC) of the book before it was officially published!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Wow, what a wonderfully written novel!
Thank you to Anna Wilk and NetGalley for the ARC!
I love that this was depicted on the coast of BC. As a British Columbian myself, I love when I recognize names of places mentioned in booked. It brings a true nostalgia into my feelings.
I adore multiple POV and emotion. And man, does this one hit the emotions!!
This quote GOT me: "But maybe this was what sacrifice looked like. Not dramatic. Not noble. Just... necessary. Folding the dream into a drawer marked for later."
Ugh. Wow.
The whole novel was easy to read, beautifully descriptive and fantastic pacing.
Wonderful job Anna - on a debut novel!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed this book. The British Columbia setting is beautifully written. You truly feel like you’re there. Alicia’s story goes beyond romance, focusing on healing, growth, and navigating a new chapter in her life.
I liked the poetic writing with the subtle jazz elements. It pulls you in quickly and makes you feel everything. Anna also handles trauma with a lot of care. Alicia is both vulnerable and strong, and her journey felt very real.
Paul and Alicia’s relationship is complex and emotional. I loved it, questioned it, and felt frustrated at times but that’s what made it feel so real.
It’s a heartbreaking yet heartwarming story. Have tissues nearby 🥺
I liked the poetic writing with the subtle jazz elements. It pulls you in quickly and makes you feel everything. Anna also handles trauma with a lot of care. Alicia is both vulnerable and strong, and her journey felt very real.
Paul and Alicia’s relationship is complex and emotional. I loved it, questioned it, and felt frustrated at times but that’s what made it feel so real.
It’s a heartbreaking yet heartwarming story. Have tissues nearby 🥺
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