The Last Poem (Courtney Peppernell, Atria)

Courtney Peppernell’s The Last Poem is a tender, modern work of fiction infused with poetic sensibility, echoing the emotional gentleness of writers such as Robyn Carr. With a slow, deliberate pace that mirrors the rhythm of mourning, Peppernell follows Paisley, a celebrated New York poet, as her life shatters after the sudden loss of her fiancée, Lucy. Unable to withstand the public gaze that accompanies her grief, Paisley retreats into anonymity, travelling through places Lucy once cherished before quietly rebuilding her life in the small town of Everston, Colorado, where she becomes known simply as Wren. There, she finds solace in a community of strangers, including members of a grief support group who are navigating loss in different forms. Through alternating perspectives – including Wren; Henry, the town librarian; and others – Peppernell illustrates the many ways grief reshapes identity: the loss of a partner, a sibling, a parent, a sense of safety, or even a former self. Their stories intersect gently, forming unlikely friendships grounded in recognition and shared vulnerability. Moments set in the library, including a moving poetry night, highlight how creativity and connection can restore what sorrow steals. The novel treats grief as both shadow and companion, suggesting that joy can return in small, steady ways and that hope often begins with being truly seen. The Last Poem will resonate with anyone drawn to reflective, character-driven storytelling. It is ultimately a story of love, forgiveness and the quiet courage required to begin again.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Andrea Kress is a library and information officer and a book reviewer. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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