Genre: Historical fiction

Release date: November 10, 2026

Goodreads rating: 4.68

My rating: 5

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I love discovering an author whose writing immediately clicks with me, and that was definitely my experience with Mary Lawson. I was pulled into Solace in Winter from the very beginning and quickly became invested in this quiet snowy Canadian community and its people.

The story follows Jack, a widower whose quiet life is disrupted when he comes across an injured dog by the side of the road after a car accident. Not long afterward, he finds a young draft dodger seriously injured near the same spot. Soon enough, the community pulls together to help these two recover.

There’s a gentleness to this book that I really appreciated. It’s not a story driven by huge dramatic moments, but the emotions build slowly as these characters find their way into each other’s lives. I loved getting to know each character. Lawson gives us a glimpse into each of their histories, their regrets, hopes, and complicated choices, and I found myself caring about what happened to all of them.

I think what made this a five-star read for me was the feeling I had while reading it. I wanted to stay in this little community a little longer, spend more time with these characters, and see where their lives would take them. It’s the kind of book that feels both intimate and comforting, even while tackling some difficult subjects like the Vietnam War, draft dodging, and family tensions.

There’s just the right amount of gentle suspense and emotion, and I especially loved the themes of connection and found family. Jack’s work as a war photographer added another fascinating layer.

I’m so glad I discovered Mary Lawson and I’ve already bought A Town Called Solace to revisit her world.

Thank you to Penguin Random House Canada and Netgalley for granting me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

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