A monumental regret. A fluttering chance for redemption.
Seventy-year-old Wallace Bernard moves to a remote island in the Pacific Northwest, ideal digs for a man accustomed to being invisible. Drawn by magnetic neighbors into troubleshooting a stalled-out romance, an aimless youngster’s prospects, and an unworldly woman’s sway toward independence, he becomes a trusted member of his new community—unaware he is inextricably linked to one neighbor’s enduring grief. When fresh loss dissolves his loner facade, magnanimous friends offer attentive support. But can Wallace find peace in being far from unremarkable?
Restorative Wren Island is the setting for this heartwarming story about embracing community, pursuing friendship, and cherishing loved ones.
All formats, including paperback from Ingram Book Company, will be available May 6, 2026 – Get notified!
Includes Discussion Guide. Contact the author to request book club appearances.
This standalone novel can also be read as Book 2 in the Make It Home series.
ISBN (paperback): 9798998896842
ISBN (e-book): 9798998896859
Library of Congress Control Number: 2026910144
Endorsements
3 reviews for Far From Unremarkable
SUBSCRIBE
Subscribe to receive newsy updates and learn about opportunities to influence what happens next on Wren Island!
Laura Joy Lloyd –
“Readers will find Far From Unremarkable an oasis in our troubling times—a place of kindness, respect, love, and redemption. Like Jan Karon’s Mitford, or Louise Penny’s Three Pines, Laura Joy Lloyd’s Wren Island is a place where one longs to live and share relationship with its inhabitants.”
Ginny L. Yttrup, Christy Award–winning novelist
Laura Joy Lloyd –
“Like a fine wine, Laura Joy Lloyd’s Wren Island series improves with age. Her second novel, Far from Unremarkable, grabbed this male reader and hurried me through to see the characters grow and how the plot resolved. Why do I recommend this book to guys? It’s gritty and realistic. Deals with disaster and loss frankly. As a guy, I appreciate that the main characters are males. The nuances of the storytelling are reminiscent of Francine Rivers’ best-selling novels. And what a teaser of an ending! Guys, either borrow your significant other’s copy, or buy one of your own. You’ll enjoy the ride! An enticing book you can read and still keep your man card.”
Tim Riter, author, professor, jack-of-all-trades, and motorcycle enthusiast
Laura Joy Lloyd –
“Far From Unremarkable is a touching exploration of grief, and a sweet story that integrates new and familiar characters we’ve come to feel are family. I was cheering for them all!”
Linda Avellar, author of Cassie Linden Finds Her Sweet Spot