Review in EDIT magazine Vol 26, Spring 2026

Chamberlain's first novel was awarded second place in the 2024 Writers' Federation of New Brunswick writing competition (David Adams Richards category). Happenstance is a literary novel about trauma, secrecy and resilience. Darby Saunders is a gifted and driven young woman: a model student, skilled salmon fisher and accomplished musician. But beneath her perfection lies a devastating secret- sexual abuse by her father- that she has carried alone for years. As Darby meticulously plans what she believes is her only escape, a series of unexpected encounters slowly pulls her away from that irreversible decision. Happenstance is a haunting and deeply absorbing novel. I was captivated by Darby's resilience and determination and I was so drawn into her world that I couldn't put the book down. Never have I rooted for a character as I did Darby's. Her story stayed with me long after the final page.

Jennifer Wood, Senior Editor