The Long and Winding Road

The Seafare Chronicles #4

by T.J. Klune

Family is not always defined by blood. It's defined by those who make us whole - those who make us who we are. And here, at the end, Bear and Otter will be tested like they've never been before. There's a knock at the door from a little girl who has nowhere else to go. There's a phone ringing, bringing news they do not expect. There's a brother returning home after learning how to stand on his own. As these moments converge, all of their lives will change forever. Beginning in Bear, Otter, and the Kid and continuing in Who We Are and The Art of Breathing, TJ Klune has told a saga of family and brotherhood, of love and sacrifice. In this final chapter, the events of the past pave the long and winding road toward a future no one could have imagined.

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Contemporary, LGBT, Audiobook, Family, Humor

303 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 9, 2017

About the author

TJ KLUNE is a Lambda Literary Award-winning author (Into This River I Drown) and an ex-claims examiner for an insurance company. His novels include The House in the Cerulean Sea and The Extraordinaries. Being queer himself, TJ believes it's important—now more than ever—to have accurate, positive, queer representation in stories.

Reviews

[T.J.]

Updated 12/19/17:

The audiobook, narrated by Sean Crisden, is now available at Audible!

https://www.audible.com/pd/Fiction/Th...

****

Dreamspinner: https://goo.gl/4wuNDc

Amazon: https://goo.gl/FdC3MP

Barnes & Noble: https://goo.gl/6ohLrv

Kobo: https://goo.gl/KuKyzz

[Jewel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saying goodbye is hard...

Like so many of you, I've been waiting for The Long and Winding Road for a long long time. Long before we knew it would really be written. Long before we knew the title. Long before now.

I'm sad, you know? This family -- Bear, Otter, Ty, Dominic, Creed, Anna, Mrs Paquinn (may she rest in peace) -- are the family that any of us would be lucky to call ours. No matter what, you know they will have your back. No matter what, they accept you. That's what family really is, you know? The people that really, truly have your back. They don't have to be blood related, they only have to be the ones that hold you up when you can't stand on your own. The ones that share in your joys and your sorrows. They're the ones that matter.

But back to the sadness. The Long and Winding Road feels bittersweet. I feel conflicted, because I couldn't wait to read this book, but also, I didn't want their story to end. I can't have both and that...well...you know what I'm trying to say, I think.

The Long and Winding Road, as TJ said in his blog post, is broken up into three parts -- Past, Present, Future. And although we know about certain events that take place in the Past part, none of it actually feels rehashed. That's quite the feat, in my opinion. I've never been a fan of reading the same story from a different character's perspective so I was looking forward to seeing how TJ would handle it. And he did it very well. You see, even in the previous book we don't see everything. So, in The Long and Winding Road we don't just get the same story from Bear's POV, we get pieces we've never even seen. And it was brilliantly done.

And the rest? Also brilliantly done. This whole journey, that started with Bear, Otter, and the Kid has finally come full circle. And I'm so damn happy to have ridden along and gotten to know this quirky, weird family of misfits. And I'm so damn sad to say goodbye.

There isn't a lot of angst in The Long and Winding Road, and there doesn't need to be. I mean, it's there, but TJ didn't ratchet it up to his usual levels. I still found myself tearing up at random moments just because this is it. This is the end of the road. I definitely cried at the end. I mean, how could I not? I'm tearing up just writing this review. And I love this family, through and through. There were funny moments, too -- Bear has come a long way, but he's not done with his EPIC freakouts and they really are a sight to behold. Also Ty is all grown up and wow...there's just so much.

I breathe and breathe and breathe.

If you love the first three books as much as I have, I suspect you're going to love this one, too. I don't want to say goodbye, no lie. But Bear, Otter, Ty, Dom and the rest of the gang will still be here. I'm not about to forget them or what they represent to me. Family.

Because family isn't always defined by blood.
It's defined by those who make us whole.
Those who make us who we are.

----------------------
ARC for The Long and Winding Road was generously provided, by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

[☆ Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I was not quite expecting that, but thoroughly enjoyed it nonetheless.

During the previous "Bear, Otter and the Kid" books, TJ put the readers through the wringer over and over and over again. Then one more time, just for shits and giggles.

But in this final book in the series, we were taken on a nostalgic trip where all of our beloved characters were allowed to quietly, sometimes irreverently, say their final goodbyes. And all with a minimum of (genuine) angst, but Bear was still just an itty bit 'dramatical', so well, you know... ;- )

During the first third of the book, TJ gave us a retelling of events that happened in Tyson's book, but from Bear's perspective, while they were living in New Hampshire, dealing with Ty's addiction, returning to Seafare, Ty returning to school alone, then Ty finally returning home for good to start a life with Dom.

Then for the remainder of the story, we got to witness the events leading up to and beyond the birth of Bear and Otter's children, then their family growing even larger, instead of simply adding their twins into the mix.

One thing that I loved about this story, aside from all of the humor, was that, for once, it wasn't just about Otter supporting Bear and Ty. Here, Bear finally realized that things can't always be about himself and Ty, which gave him the courage to give Otter something he'd always wanted. An actual family of his own, with Bear.

Basically, our beloved characters have all grown up, finally becoming the people they'd hoped they could someday be. The family they were always meant to be. Together. Happy. Whole.

God, for this story to have basically been a happy one, despite the expected freak-outs, I finished it with an extremely heavy heart, since this was "The Last One" that I'd ever get for my beloved Bear, Otter and a Kid named Tyson.

(I also finished it calling TJ a fucker for teasing me with the possibility of a really entertaining YA story that I'll likely never get to read. Ugh, why in God's name would he do that??? My angst over that is freaking tangible, people, let me tell you!)

As if there was ever any real doubt, this final BOATK story was yet another 5-star read for me, as I sadly, reluctantly close the book, but not my heart, on all of these amazing characters. Although, I suppose, like many things, it was inevitable.

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My ARC copy of the book was provided by the publisher in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.

See All My Latest Reads (Review Quick-Links)

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[Wendys Wycked Words · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so very happy when I got my hands on this book....yet also so very sad. 

I know that all great things usually come to an end...doesn't mean I have to be happy about it though. :P

Now I have promised some of my dear GR friends to keep this review as spoiler-free as possible, so that's what I am gonna try to do. I know plenty of people want to read this awesome book and I don't want to ruin things for them. ;)

This book is told from Bear's pov and it's divided into three parts.

The past, the present, and future. Now don't worry about the past parts, it's not like a re-read of the other books. It actually explains things that happened in "The art of Breathing", from Bear's pov. There are so many things we didn't weren't aware of. It was very enlighting, to be honest, and for me, it also put Ty's book in a very different perspective.





Now as most already know, even though this book is told from Bear's pov, it isn't  just his book. It's a book about love and family and friends and those friends were all very present. Damn but I love Creed, he always knows how to lighten things up and he may not be the most responsible father...

But he damn sure is the coolest and funniest. :P

Now as far as emotions go, I did shed some tears. But they were mostly happy ones. I can honestly say that TJ has made this goodbye perfect and kept the angst on the down low. That's not to say it wasn't emotional at times...

I also laughed a lot !! I mean this is Bear we are talking about and I can happily say that he has multiple awesome "Bear moments"!!

So even though I am very sad that series has come to an end...I am happy with how it ended.

TJ gave me the closure I needed and for this, I am very thankful. I am not saying goodbye though...

There will be plenty of re-reads in my future, where I get to spend time with these awesome characters...again and again. :D

We have lived.
We have loved.
We have lost.
But we’re standing. For all that we are, we’re still standing.

[* A Reader Obsessed * · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Glorious Stars!!

A fantastic end to a fantastic series!!

If you haven’t started with Bear, Otter, and the Kid then carve out some time in your schedule and start on this right away. You won’t regret it!

Suffice it to say, this was everything a finale should be. Sentimental, wistful, with plenty of affirmations in all the ways a reader (or at least, myself) wants when saying goodbye. Though this series mostly centers on brothers Bear and the Kid and their deep bond that was forged from hellish trials and painful milestones, it also focuses on their own personal love relationships and all the people they call family.

What will always stand out the most for me though, is Otter. Oh Otter. Let me count the many many ways I love you so hard. This man has it all and everything about him - physically, emotionally - everything made me swoon!! *ridiculous enamored silly dance ensues* Bear is seriously the luckiest man to have ever lived in fiction.

But I digress. I can’t put into words how much joy this gave me. I laughed. I cried. I laughed while crying and cried while laughing. It’s a rare book that can pull so many emotions, and I only wanted more more more. Sadly, Klune has said that this is the end, and if it’s gonna end, I wouldn’t change a thing about it. He has left me wanting and that is the best indicator of how great this series is.

So much applause and wonder and gratitude.

Thank you for this amazing journey, its unforgettable characters, and a love that I rank as one of the rare epic stories that has moved and branded itself on me so I won't soon forget!

[Rachel L · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5-4 stars!

What a great conclusion! The pacing was a bit off, there were some slow bits and that's why a 3.5 more than a 4. But lots of great moments with all the feels and I am so glad TJ Klune took us on this journey.

[BWT · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you remember how it all began?

The Long and Winding Road is broken up into three parts: Past, Present, and Future. The Past is a lovingly done recap of the series, including explaining the events that lead up to The Art of Breathing.

While Bear and Otter are the focus of this story, and it's from Bear's (often hilarious) point of view, you must remember Bear and Otter would not be "Bear and Otter" without their family. Without Tyson (the Kid), Mrs. P., Creed, Anna, and Dom. They're all here. Maybe only in memory and in the heart, but always there.

Just like the love Bear and Otter have for one another.

Life can turn on a dime.
But if you’ve got someone at your side, someone who holds you up when your knees go weak, someone who kisses you every time like it’s the first time, there’s a chance you’ll make it.
I’ve got this.
Whatever might come, I’ve got this.
Because he’s by my side.

“I am going to love you forever,” he says quietly. “Because that’s what I want. And if you want to do all of this, all this elaborate whatever, then that’s what we’ll do. Or if you just want to stay at home and make out on the couch, we can do that too. What you want is important to me, Bear. And you can tell me, always. I know it can be tough sometimes, and you’ll probably piss me off, or I’ll make you mad, but we’re a team, okay? Never forget that. We’re a team, and no matter what happens, I’m always going to have your back. For everything.”

And we fit. We always have, even before we were us. There was something there, something arcing between us like lightning, always crawling along our skin. Maybe we didn’t know how to name it, didn’t know just how far it could go, but we knew. And we pushed and pulled, clawing our way to each other.
But we fit. Just like we do now.

God, how it turns on a fucking dime.
And it can surprise the hell out of you.

There is a lot packed into this but it never feels like the words were written as filler. Every part, every conversation, every meltdown all felt organic and necessary to the story.

We have lived. We have lost. We have loved with every single beat of our hearts, and we have fucking earned this.

There's humor here, because of course there is, this is TJ Klune after all.

“I don’t know that you have a subtle bone in your body.” He pauses, considering. “Well, except for when I’m inside of—”
“Unless you plan to do something about it right now, you better not even finish that. Seriously, Otter. What the hell.”
He waggles his eyebrows at me.
He’s such an asshole. I’m the luckiest man in the world.

There were a lot of happy tears. A lot of sighing. A lot of wondering how it is possible that these characters that I have loved for years still feel fresh and new and a vital part of me.

A thousand other moments. All the bits and pieces that make up a life.
We have lived. We have lived through so much.
We have made this life our own, this strange family of ours.
Because family isn’t always defined by blood.
It’s defined by those who make us whole.
Those who make us who we are.

The story meanders a little, like life does. We get glimpses into everyone - how they are, how they will be - and I loved every single minute of it.

Maybe one day we’ll meet again.
But even if we don’t, remember this:
We have lived.
We have loved.
We have lost.
But we’re standing. For all that we are, we’re still standing.

I'll admit, I was a little worried when I heard this would be TJ's last time visiting this odd, wonderful, funny, crazy, awesome family. I worried that this story might not live up to the love I have in my heart for these characters. I may have worried a little - but I never once doubted. TJ rocked this. He came through and brought this absolutely beautiful story to life.



I LOVED THIS. I cried, I laughed, and my heart was so full of love for these characters and these stories. TJ does not let fans of this series down: he doesn't rip your heart out (too) much, and what he does bruise he absolutely makes all better by the end. Make no mistake, this is a love letter to the characters and to those of us who love them so much.

I 100% recommend this story - but I strongly encourage you to read the other books in the series first. In my opinion, this should not be read as a standalone.



Advanced Review Galley copy of The Long and Winding Road (Bear, Otter, and the Kid #4) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.

This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.

**Update for Audiobook released 12/19/17**



Honestly, I was just a teeny bit disappointed in the narration. One of the reasons to have the same narrator perform all the books in a series is for continuity, and I felt like Sean Crisden was off in the character voices. Maybe it's because I recently re-listened to the other audios in the series, but all of the voices seemed different upon this listen; some subtly and some drastically, but it was noticeable to me.

That being said, the narration is still really good. The character voices that are used are distinguishable and consistent throughout, and Sean brings out the humor and emotion of the story beautifully, and his pacing and timing are wonderful, as always.

4 Stars for the Narration.

[.Lili. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Long and Winding Road is the final book of the Bear, Otter, and the Kid Series by TJ Klune. Many of us have been with them on their journey with them for years, and (I think) we've all been waiting with anticipation and sadness for this book. We've gotten to know and love Bear, Otter, Ty, Dominic, Creed, Anna, and Mrs. Paquin RIP ♥ and to be honest I'm getting teary just typing their names. I love these characters. Anyways (*deep breath*), in this last installment we come full circle.

Some of my highlights:

-Narration. I'm an alternating POV junkie, but Klune is one of the exceptions to the rule. The story is told from Bear's often hilarious POV.

-Character development. We saw a more mature Bear- he saw that's it not all about him.

-The breakdown. The story is broken down into 3: past, present, and future. I was relieved that nothing felt rehashed. I get annoyed when reading past stories from previous books in a series because it comes across as repetitive. That isn't the case here; I thought it was handled wonderfully.

-The angst didn't kill me. LOL, Sometimes Klune makes my stomach physically hurt but not this time around. I still cried but mainly due to nostalgia.

-The story telling. It just sucked me in and wrapped me up. I ended up reading the majority of this book overnight until my eyes couldn't stay open and then I woke up and finished the rest.

I could go on and on. I want to tell you stories of their shenanigans as if I was telling you about a loved ones- well because that's what this little family has become. I'm not going to though so that you can experience it for yourself.

The Long and Winding Road is bittersweet. I'll always remember these characters and I will revisit them.



I'll re-read you and see y'all again soon. ♥

[Lisazj1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audio reread/listen July 2021

Holy hell, I forgot how much emotion there was to reading this. I went back and forth so much from laughing til I cried to just straight up crying, it was dizzying and utterly glorious and I loved it all to the very bottom of my heart. Family. 🥰

****

First read August 2017

I don't want to say goodbye. I know it doesn't have to be forever, I can come back and visit any time I want. I've so loved taking this journey with this wacky, crazy beloved family that I will miss going forward with them. But I'm so thankful that TJ still had one more story to tell, one more journey to take with them, so that all of us who love them so much would get the chance for a proper goodbye and to see them all happy, in the places they were all meant to be.

Of all books in this series, this was the most angst free. Not that things were perfect, because when is life perfect, ever? But oh, they came damn close at times here. The hilarity, the love, the damn feels. I definitely shed a few tears but they were all happiness and overflowing emotion.

Thank you TJ Klune, for the love & family.

[Line · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still as great the second third time around!!!

Original review: I got an email when I got up, saying this book was ready for download at DSP, I looked at the BF and said: See you in 6 hours!
And that was pretty much my day, I haven't put the book down for more than a few minutes at a time.

This was THE most anticipated book of this year for me, and boy oh boy did it meet my expectations and so much more<3
Beautiful!
Sad (in a good way)!
Melancholic!
And a fantastic farewell to Seafare and all the ridiculous, amazing characters.
Tears were definitely shed (but the good kind) and this series will be read again and again and again!!!

[moonlight ☾ [semi-hiatus] · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars ☆

“Don't.”
He looks confused. “What are you—”
“You get to ask for things,” I tell him, a little angry on his behalf. “You do. This isn't just about me. Or Tyson. You don't have to sacrifice things all the time, Otter. You get to ask for things. You deserve to. It may take me a while, but I'll give you anything I can. So yes, this is something you wanted, and this is something I wanted with you, so yes. Yes. We had to. We get to.”
His voice is rough when he says, “I only ever wanted to be with you. That would have been enough.”
“You don't get to just have enough. Not while I'm around. And since I apparently have super sperm, I'll give you more than enough.”

i swear, it's always tj klune's stories that i have a hard time saying goodbye to the characters/world i've grown to love within his series'. :( i remember my heart was also hurting the moment i finished Brothersong and had to say "goodbye" to everyone in Green Creek. that similar feeling is happening with BOATK for me, at this moment.

i've said this plenty of times, especially in my reviews of the previous books of the series, but i simply adore how realistic tj klune's characters feel to me. i especially felt it for all of BOATK bc these characters are flawed, they fuck up, it hurts, but they also learn and grow from those mistakes (i truly have felt Bear's growth the most, if you compare how he was in the very beginning of the series to now... and i couldn't be more proud of him tbh🥺). i definitely won't be surprised if this series is either loved OR hated for that reason and that's okay. Bear and Tyson are the characters i personally related to the most in the series. i just felt what they felt. the way their minds worked. their insecurities. fears. it's something i've felt in my own personal life and, bc of that, they won't be for everyone. again, that's okay. the main and side characters in this series, similar to Green Creek or The House of the Cerulean Sea, are a cast that have warmed their way into my heart and i won't forget anytime soon, if ever. i just adored them all so much and i'm so glad i finally took a chance on this, on them. 🥺

also!! just wanted to add that i'm pretty impressed to find out BOATK was tj klune's debut novel?? it brought out emotions and feelings within me that i'd expect an author's later works to hit me rather than a debut novel (well, there were a few debut novels that have made me feel this strongly, but most haven't really) so... just props to him. 😳

***
full series ratings
#1 Bear, Otter, and the Kid — 4 stars
#2 Who We Are — 4.5 stars
#3 The Art of Breathing — 5 stars
#4 The Long and Winding Road — 4.5 stars

[Layla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Relisten #4
I still want another book for you know who.

Relisten #3
So much love for this series.

Relisten #2

This book was so hard because saying goodbye is never easy.

TJ Klune has the gift of creating families that you connect with, love and relate to.
Families who stay with you because they are real and flawed and loving and crazy.

The Thomsons are no exception.

Bear and Otter, their love that withstood years and many trials and tribulations.
From book 1 we have followed them and experience everything that have loved and lost.

The long and winding road to their HEA... and wow what a journey.

Otter will forever be one of my fave TJ characters. He's so dependable and selfless, caring and loving. A true partner.

Bear is just Bear, with all his neurosis and word vomit. All the impossible scenarios he weaves in his head.

And these two men have the biggest hearts. The love they have for Ty, their families, Dom and Ben, the kate Mrs. Paquin, the twins and more and more.

Also, Bear and Otter role playing to spice up their sex life .... DED

What an amazing series that was.

I still want my very own Otter.

[Christelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

**5 glorious stars**
The last get-together with Bear and Otter, with Ty and Dom, with Anna and Creed and with all the rest of this epic, funny and adorable bunch of characters.

It was the perfect mix of fun, of OTT, of craziness, of tenderness, of love, of family, of friendship. It’s the end of the journey : nostalgic and bittersweet.

I laughed, I sighed, I cried and then, I had to say goodbye and close this book, knowing they are all in a good place. How I’m going to miss Bear and his so famous ramblings, Otter and his unconditional love and support, Ty and his tortured genius, Dom and his quiet strength, Creed and his crazy antics.

TJ Klune wrote a fantastic story that resonated a lot for me, with unbelievable and at the same time so realistic characters that I felt like they were real and part of my life. I loved Bear, Otter, and the Kid and I LOVED this perfect ending. Thank you, TJ Klune, thank you **sigh**

[Pauline · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Life turns. It turns and turns and turns.
But sometimes it turns for the better.’

I don’t have the words to describe what these books, these characters mean to me, so I’m not even going to really try. But I will say this:

I didn’t know how much I needed this. This final chapter, this epic conclusion to the most wonderful series and fictional people I have ever met. To see they are okay. More than okay even, that they are content and good and thriving and finally, finally and so utterly deservedly happy.

This book had all of the wonderful themes of the previous ones: the most gut-wrenchingly beautiful found family, the love oozing out of every page, the fierce fighting for the important things in life, the friendships, the brotherhood, the loyalty, the wisdom, the incredible writing. Plus a few adorably awful dad jokes, because well… they are dads now, so what can you do, really?

I feel like I am part of them, and they of me. They don’t feel fictional, they feel real. So real, that I sometimes catch myself wondering ‘Hm, what are Bear, Otter and the Kid up to right now? How are Ty’s earthquakes doing? Is Mrs. Paquinn watching over them all right now?’ and isn’t that the most marvellous thing?

I’m heartbroken it’s over, but I’m so glad I found them. I’m going to miss them. Like, so much. And I’m already excited to get to know them all over again when I start from the beginning.
I think these books, these people, truly changed me and I couldn’t be more grateful for that. I’m serious (Hi Serious, I’m…).

Okay, I’ve stopped sobbing now and will need approximately 3-5 business days to function properly again, brb.

‘We have lived. We have lost. We have loved with every single beat of our hearts and we have fucking earned this.’

[Renée · Rating 4 out of 5]

~4.5 stars!~

It's a sad and bittersweet day to close the final chapter in this story. Saying goodbye to any couple is never easy, but saying good bye to the entire crew of this series is especially hard.

Bear, Otter, and the KidBear, Otter, and the Kid was one of my first MM reads, a "classic" if you will. I had no idea it would turn into what it became. I never imagined I'd like Ty's book more than the first two, but I did. The Art of Breathing can still make me cry after my sixth read.

We left off Book 3 with the surprise knowledge of twins coming, a sister needing a home, and Ty moving back into the Green Monstrosity after finishing college.

Book 4 doesn't pick up there, though. At least, not at first. Book 4 is divided into three sections - Past, Present, and Future. The Past isn't a "redo", however. It takes us, through Bear's POV, of what really happened with Ty's drug use, for example. That was never experienced in Book 3, just mentioned. So it was definitely new material.

There could've been epic level angst here, but TJ toned it down a bit. And I was glad for it. These people have been through enough. It's time to settle.

Book 4 won't be the most memorable. TJ did too good a job with the first three books and their level of Wookie Cry Face. But it's the one where I smiled the most. It's the one that wrapped my heart in a warm blanket.

It brought closure. And that's what it was meant for.

The present and future parts of this book felt like a long epilogue for the series. I am profoundly happy with the way Klune ended the series. I'm sad to see this family go, of course. But it's time.

[Maja (The Nocturnal Library) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The long farewell to our beloved characters from Bear, Otter and the Kidd is finally here. Tj Klune made the brave and wonderful choice to give his fans a chance to say goodbye to those they’ve loved and cried with for such a long time. After seeing these guys grow up, fall in love and build a life together through pain, loss, friendships, joy, drama and unexpected word vomits, our reluctance to let go is more than understandable. But let go we must, and I can’t imagine a better way to do it than with this final book.

In The Long and Winding Road, everyone is grown, everyone is mature, everyone behaves like a responsible adult at all times and everything goes exactly as planned… and if you believed a single word of that, you’ve obviously never met Bear or Creed, or even the Kid. Nothing, nothing goes as planned for this small family. Every single plan goes awry, everything turns into a dramatic and often ridiculous event and not a single conversation ends like you expect. Seeing Bear, Ty and everyone else change as the blows come along was once again a privilege and a marvel… and something I’ll revisit many times in years to come.

The boys (and girls) from the Green Monstrosity might have some loose ends to tie, but they are ready for the next chapter in their lives. Tj takes us back in time to see some previous events through different eyes and to witness major decisions being made. Bear, as always, is basically a grandma in a young man’s body, an adorable, careful worrywart, who develops ridiculous scenarios in his head only to panic about them. Otter, of course, is the calming influence, the stabilizing factor in this crazy and wonderful family. And Ty… Ty must learn that all actions have reactions and that the universe sometimes has a truly odd sense of humor.

Those of us who are familiar with Tj’s special brand of humor know not to read his books in public… or we should. I’ve had people distance themselves from me at the beach because I was laughing out loud like a loon. If you don’t wish to become the local crazy person, you should perhaps keep this one behind closed doors. Or you can take it to the town square and say to hell with everybody… we all deserve to laugh so hard daily.

If you haven’t met these guys, hold on to something and prepare for a very emotional ride. But if you, like me, already know and love them, you know exactly what to expect. I can only assure you that it’s even better than you could have imagined.

[Cyndi (hiatus) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm going to miss these characters so much! Bear's goodbyes at the end had me sobbing. I didn't want our paths to diverge! I've been so invested in their lives that I felt like I was being cut out of the family, but this really was a perfect send off for them. It was one of those endings that makes you reflect on how it all started and how far Bear, Otter and the Kid have come. So much nostalgia, so many beautiful moments and a wonderful HEA across the board. I really loved this series and can't see myself forgetting about these characters any time soon.

[Gabi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, now the time has come and I have to say goodbye to all the characters I've grown so fond of. ❤️ 😭 ❤️

Because family isn’t always defined by blood.
It’s defined by those who make us whole.
Those who make us who we are.
And here, now, is a moment I never thought I’d see. That I never thought I’d get to have.
A nurse says, “Would you like to hold your children?”
And Otter’s voice breaks when he says, “Please. Yes. Yes, please.”

[Ariana (mostly offline) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite a long while ago the first book in this series left Bear, Otter and Kid-sized indents in my heart . They remained there throughout the years as we followed them dealing with whatever life threw at them.

I feel I know these guys and the family they ‘accrued’ around them over time.
I laughed and cried with them, I fretted over their choices, I marveled at their resilience and felt humbled by all the love they spread around so generously.

Yes, this is nostalgic . No, there isn’t a lot of angst (worries, yes, but angst, no)
I would say that this book is just perfectly right.

Life never stands still. It will always go on, inviting us to follow that ‘Long and Winding Road’, with all its ups and downs, highs and lows. And that is exactly what happens here.

Bear and Otter tackle life as new challenges present themselves. Some are unexpected, others ‘planned’. I loved these perfectly cut ‘slices of life’. I loved seeing Otter and Bear becoming even more than they were before, for themselves and for their family. I loved seeing Ty and Dom happy.

This book wrapped itself round my heart like a warm blanket . And moments like those ones at 62% and at 85% (not spoiling, if you read it you will immediately know)) had me grab for the tissue box. But – don’t be alarmed – all out of happiness.

This book is divided in three parts: Past, Present and Future.
TJ Klune did well going over ‘old grounds’ without getting me bored (as if that could ever be the case!) Bear’s POV on Tyson’s problems in New Hampshire was valuable and heart rending.
The Present part was a direct continuation where book 3 left off – so lots going on at the same time!
I adored the Future part. So so 100% perfect. I cried (again).

My favourite scene , apart from all those I mentioned: Bear and Otter at the bar, pretending to meet for the first time. It was totally precious and full of TJ’s unique blend of laughs, love and feels.

Of course it is a bit sad seeing them all go. But I know I can revisit them anytime, so I am content.

Thank you, Mr. Klune for giving us such memorable, wonderful characters, for showing us what family should be like, for giving us hope that whatever happens on that long and winding road of life, we can succeed and find happiness if we love hard, stick together and make the most of it.

Highly recommended!

[Gwennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh, so many tears!

On Twitter, TJ kept telling his readers how we were going to cry but I secretly didn’t think I would. I was wrong. I cried multiple times while reading. Especially in the last chapter. I’m pretty sure I even made the deep sob sound.

The thing is, when you start Bear, Otter and the Kid Tyson is so little. Bear was only 18. We got to read their whole lives, and we love them. Now, just like TJ, we are saying goodbye and that is so hard. I’m not ready. I only just discovered these guys a year ago, and I love them.

The Long and Winding Road is hard to review. It’s the end of one really long story, and to talk about it is to give away the end of their saga. All I can say is everything works out exactly how it should for Bear, Ty, and especially for Otter. When you imagine your favorite story, and how you want it to end, that’s exactly what I got in this book. I can’t imagine how anyone wouldn’t be happy with how this ended.

Also, I think what really got me was being back in Bear’s head. I’ve always loved his perspective more than anyone else’s. I love his inner dialogue and his humor, and I think the switch to Ty’s perspective in the third book was the only reason why it was my least favorite. Obviously it could only have been from Ty’s perspective, and it was good, I just really love Bear.

That’s my review. It’s not the best one of I’ve ever written, but it’s honest. Would I like more books, heck yes. I’ll always want more of what I love. However, I’m thrilled with how this series turned out. I love this family. I’ll be rereading it again and again.

Thank you to Dreamspinner Press for providing a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

If you liked this review and would like to read more, check out Birdie Bookworm.

[Elsbeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh man, this was wonderful. Perfect. I love all these people so much.

Thank you TJ for this amazing family. This family that started with Bear, Otter & the Kid.

Roads can diverge.

It’s tough but true.

It’ll be okay. In the end.

So you’ll go one way.

And we’ll go another.

Maybe one day we’ll meet again.

But even if we don’t, remember this:

We have lived.

We have loved.

We have lost.

But we’re standing.

For all that we are, we’re still standing.

Definitely a series I will be revisiting... Beginning with the audio. Funny how that works, even when reading this book, Sean Crisden's voice for Bear's verbal diarrhea is what I heard. Some narrators are just ingrained with the character.

*HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

[Rina Pride · Rating 5 out of 5]

O quarto livro fecha com chave de ouro toda história de Bear, otter e Tyson. Foi um livro lindo ❤️ Feliz por ter conhecido essa história 💯

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the stars in the sky ❤️... so how do I even review this and put my thoughts into words ? .....there are some books that hold your heart and become part of you- more than a story, more like family. Bear Otter & The Kid are those people, the characters I would really really love to know in RT. They are neurotic, loyal and joyful and through their strange problem solving processes they base every resolution on one key point - love. Their love for each other, their love for their family and their love for their friends. They diffuse with humor, or weird internet facts, monologue about past, or potential future situations and they put forward the belief that anything can be achieved and is possible. I loved this story coming from Bear's POV and wonder how similar TJ and Bear may really be ? This is a beautiful journey with this family and while I'm sad it's over, I'm so glad I was part of it. I could not adore TJ Klune more ❤️❤️❤️

[Vanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!! 🤩😍What an end to the series! It was different in a way that it repeated some of the events from the 3rd book from the POV of Bear and the events leading up to the ending. Although it was insightful and heartrending to read what Bear and Otter went through I felt that I could easily have skipped that. What came after, the second part was full of anguish and laughter and frustration and joy.. so much joy😇. It felt so real.., the perfection of Bear and Otter and how they are each other's strengths and weakness. The supporting characters were just super fun to read about.. I mean Creed!! 😍 How can anyone not love him? Although Otter is still my favorite. 💕💘 I would have liked to know a little bit more about how Ty and Dominic were working through their relationship and family.. but all in all it was a very satisfactory story which tied up all the lose ends and what an Epilogue!! 🤩 Loved it!

[Tamika♥RBF MOOD♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book for free from in exchange for an honest review.
This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Its been 2 days since finishing this book, and I'm trying to figure out how to conjure Otter out of this alternate universe. With no luck, or help it isn't happening. I'm a huge fan of Klune, and everyone knows I like his more serious books without the comedy. I enjoy the comedy don't get me wrong, but the realistic fiction calls to my soul more. When I first laid eyes on this series, I stayed away! Yikes the cover was HIDEOUS for book one. I don't even recall what I first thought about it. My very first read was Into This River I Drowned and it destroyed me. It broke me into a billions pieces, and I had to reconsider on what covers mean to me. At this point, 2 books in the series were out and three was a few months out. I decided to give it a chance, and its the best thing I've ever had to do. Falling in love with this family felt so right. Falling in love with Otter felt so normal Crying, and laughing felt like home. I just re-read the first 3 books leading up to me reading this. Its a series that I know I can't re-read often for fear of losing that spark that I felt the very first time. I won't go on and long with poetry about how amazing Klune is. After all he gave me Otter, Gus & Ox. His characters are real, flawed, amazing, and seep so deep down inside you, that you can't help but to love them.

Reading this book was hard because as much as I loved it, seeing me get close to the 100% was way harder. It was emotional, it was funny, and it made me feel melancholy for a while. Unlike most, I'm happy with the end of this series. I love where they are at. I feel like Bear & Kid have finally found peace and I'm happy with everything they've had to go through to get where they are. No part of this journey has been easy. If I could have had any of the support in my life that these two have had, then I'd be happy and content.

The Long and Winding Road is broken up into 3 different parts. Each part literally tears me down. I might love the future part, but the past part definitely affected me more. Seeing the Kid's situation was so devastating, but it was brilliantly done. It was honest, and truthful. No easy fix, no rainbows or sprinkles. Really gritty, and something that needed to be approached. Love that the overall message is about family. Whether it comes from blood relatives, or people you've woven together it only matters that you love one another and look out for the people who've always mattered.

Its bittersweet saying goodbye, but I thank T.J. for welcoming these people in my life for the betterment of it. I can peacefully say goodbye to Bear, Otter, Kid, Dominic, Mrs. Paquinn, Creed, Anna and the Rents! I can say goodbye to the future Thompson's and Millers. I can say goodbye to the earthquakes, laughter, and that little patch of beach. It might not be really goodbye for me, but I'm happy with the ending. So thank you T.J. I totally loved this book and Otter ever more!

[Jenni Lea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book of Klune's I have read in secret because I was greedy and didn't want to share. I dunno why I feel that way about his books lately but there it is.

This was complete and total wish fulfillment for me. This series couldn't have ended any better in my opinion.

My mostest favoritest thing about this book is the abundance of Otter that we get here. I felt like I really got to see him for who he is. Where as in the previous books he seemed more of a version of the perfect fictional boyfriend, here he was flawed and substantial and just more... real.

Bear's internal freak outs seemed to be toned down a little but I attribute that to the fact he is older now and has matured emotionally for the most part.

The only thing I can think of that didn't satisfy me was when Bear and Paul finally 'meet'. Just like Corey/Kori and Ty, I thought that would be an epic scene of hilariously disastrous proportions. And just like Corey/Kori and Ty, I was a bit let down when it didn't pan out like I hoped it would. But, such is life. You can't have everything.

I had a blast reading this story. I laughed and cried and fell in love with all of these characters all over again. I will miss them so much.

[Sara]

5 Hearts

Just remember, though: it’s not about the destination. It’s about the long and winding road that took us there.

And I will remember that road always.

I am going to go completely out of character here and keep this review short. Why? I don’t think you need me to ramble on about how much this series has meant to me or how much I love Otter first and everyone else after him. I adore the hell out of these strangers from Seafare who crept in so quietly with their laughter and love that will remain etched like an epitaph on my hopeless romantic heart forever.

This book was laid out wonderfully to give the reader closure featuring Past, Present and Future. We get the past, which we know but we get new insights into it all like what went on with Ty and his addiction and how Bear and Otter dealt with the turmoil of making sure the Kid came back whole. We saw them deal with Dom during that time and everything else we missed while Ty told us his story.

We got a lot of Bear and Ty through the series, which totally makes sense but honestly, I wanted more of Otter than the short bits we got at the end of books one and two with his perspective through epilogues. Otter has always been it for me followed by Dom because, he’s totally Otter lite and then Bear and Ty. I can’t explain it but Otter is amazing to me as he is to everyone who loves him and I love that we got Otter focused AF in this book because if anyone deserves more on page time, it’s Otter.

The present part of this book was stunning. We know about the knock at the door of the Green Monstrosity at the end of The Art of Breathing and that Izzie shows up. We know who Bear and Otter are and what they do for people in need but this not only focused on what they do for others but on what they do for themselves and that is starting a family of their own. Now, yeah they have a family with Anna, Creed, Ty, Dom and the rest of the family they have made but Otter and Bear decide to have babies and it’s the most wonderful thing in the world.

Goodness. I promised I would keep this short and I will.

The past will haunt you, the present will tear you up and make you tear up but it’s always followed by the laughs and laughter through tears is always my favorite emotion. The future will give you hope and make you want oh so much more from the series but I will say that this book, it’s enough and it’s so much more than I ever thought we’d get.

Bear, Otter and the Kid holds such a special place in my heart. Hell, it even got me to write a poem ala the Kid for book two as a review, but it’s one of those series, one of those stories with such memorable characters that remain in your heart forever because you can’t let them go. From epic poems, letters of goodbye, shitty things happening to good people, angst beyond the angst should happen to a redheaded reader, awkward long hugs, some of the best speeches ever, revenge seeking seagulls and a love or two that makes your heart long for more, this will be one of my favorite series…ever.

Though, The Long and Winding Road, was classic Death by Klune for me, every tear was worth it and I humbly thank the author for giving us this gift.

[pinkcloudsbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Con l’ultimo volume di questa serie ho dovuto salutare Bear, Otter, Kid e tutti gli altri personaggi che mi hanno tenuta compagnia per tutto questo tempo. Ed è stato difficile. Tantissimo.
Con la sua scrittura Tj Klune è riuscito a catapultarmi nella mente di Bear e nel cuore di questa grande e immensa famiglia.

Io non me ne sono accorta, ma mi hanno resa parte della loro famiglia per quattro libri. Abbiamo vissuto insieme.
E come ha detto Tj Klune,
Li ho visti crescere.
Li ho visti amare.
Li ho visti scavarsi il loro piccolo posto nel mondo.
E io ci sono stata, ci sono sempre stata.

Ma poi è arrivato il momento di lasciarli andare.
Ci ho messo un po’ per capacitarmene, ma alla fine mi sono guardata indietro e ho preso consapevolezza del fatto che ne è valsa la pena. E che se potessi, rileggerei tutto da capo come se fosse la prima volta.

Con una scrittura particolare e immensa, Tj Klune ci racconta la storia di Bear, Otter e Kid: Bear ha solo diciassette anni quando lui e il suo piccolo frattellino Kid vengono abbandonati dalla madre. Si ritrovano spaventati e spaesati. Ma non affronteranno tutto questo da soli, perché con loro c’è Creed, il migliore amico di Bear. E Otter, il fratello maggiore di Creed.

Volete sapere cosa leggerete in questi quattro libri?
Leggerete della loro vita che scorre, che va avanti. Loro che soffrono, perdono, si rialzano.
Leggerete dell’amore di Bear e Otter. Vedrete i loro sentimenti nascere, maturare e rafforzarsi sempre di più.
Leggerete di un Kid che cresce, che diventa grande e pronto per affrontare il mondo.
Leggerete di una famiglia legata da tanto amore, un amore totalizzante e unico.

Vivere nella mente di Bear è stato un viaggio meraviglioso.
Si soffre, si gioisce, ci si emoziona ripetutamente per tantissime cose. E adesso più che mai mi rendo conto che aver deciso di iniziare questa serie è stato il regalo più bello che potessi farmi.

È vero, loro prenderanno una direzione. Io un’altra. Ma sono consapevole del fatto che loro hanno vissuto. Hanno amato. Hanno perduto. Si sono rialzati.
E io ci sono stata, ogni volta.
Se volete esserci anche voi per loro, sono sicura che vi staranno già aspettando. 🤍

[Debra ~~ seriously slacking on her reviews ~~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

BOATK is the book that started me on m/m and I have loved every one in this series. Now it's time to say goodbye and TJ Klune has wrapped it up just as great as it started.

We're back in Bear's head, with a look at the past and how he coped with Ty's issues in The Art of Breathing, to the present where an older and wiser(?) Bear has almost too much on his plate and manages in true Bear fashion - meltdowns and all, to the future where we finally get a bit of Otter's POV. I laughed, I cried and I remembered just why BOATK enchanted me and brought me to this wonderful reading community.

All the characters you love are back with a few new ones too, but it's all about Bear and Otter and the family that they have made. Bear has grown so much over the years and it's never more apparent than in this story. His love for Otter and the Kid has also grown and now he knows it must also evolve and that is the crux of this story. I won't say any more than if you love this series you will love the finale.

Thanks to TJ Klune for sharing these wonderful characters and for opening up a whole new world for me personally as well.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes...once really is not enough...

If you haven't read this series please...stop here go back and start reading or listening because it's all on audio. So either is good...trust me I've done both read the the series and listened to the audio and truly either format is very good.

I know I've already done one big long rambly review extolling the virtues of this book...actually of the whole series and truthfully I'll probably borrow some bits and pieces from it to use in this review, but if I do I promise I'll try to keep it to a minimum.

There's a quote that starts something to the effect of 'start as you mean to go on' and when I think about this series I truly feel that's what TJ Klune has done with this series. He began by giving us a story, one that we could relate to, with characters that we'd care about...invest a bit of ourselves in and take into our hearts and love and we did...or at least I know I did and I'm pretty sure a lot of my friends who read these books did as well and now here at the end of the journey we are once again given those same characters and even though this is their good-bye they have stayed in my heart and for all the hours that they've spent sharing their time with me they will remain firmly tucked into a corner of my heart.

When this journey started Bear was just finishing high school and the Kid well he was just that 'a kid' just a little guy and throughout the course of these stories we watched them grow up...going from a young man and a kid to grown men who have fallen in love, gotten married and now have children of their own. They've shared their happiness and their heartache with us, their good times and their bad and in return we've given them our tears and taken them into our hearts.

I've read more than a few series from start to finish and I have to admit some have had amazing endings and some have been more than a little disappointing. 'The Long and Winding Road' for me was a perfect fit to the rest of the series. This is good-bye it's a glimpse at the past and everything that's gone before to make these men who they are but it's also a look into a future...one that's filled with love, laughter, good times, bad times and hope...always, there is hope.

Sean Crisden was the narrator for this final audio book and while he hasn't narrated all the books in this series, he has narrated 3 out of the 4 and I have loved every one of them. I'm a fan of Mr. Crisden and yes, honestly I am listening to one of his other audio books as I type this review...like I say "I'm a fan." With each story he's given us a solid and consistent narration adding depth, dimension and life to the characters and the stories.

Sadly 'The Long and Winding Road' is the final chapter in the journey that we've taken with these characters. I had mistakenly thought it would be easier to travel this road this time because 'Hey, I've already read the story. I know what's going to happen, right?' well, yeah that is correct but somehow the sad was just as sad, the happy was just as happy and the funny was just as funny as the first time around and I'm pretty sure that times number 3 and 4 and so on ad so on are all going to be just as enjoyable because while the this may be the end of the journey it's not going to be good-bye for me as long as there's a play button on my computer, e-reader, whatever I'll be spending time with these stories.

Well go me, I've gotten this far without having to cheat and use anything from my original review so I think I'm going to quite while I'm ahead and I'll just say 'The Long and Winding Road' is the last leg of the journey for 'Bear, Otter & the Kid' if you've read it all like me than you know that audio or e-book this series is time well spent and if you haven't...well, damn you were suppose to quite reading this review back up at the beginning...obviously you're one of those people who don't follow instructions well...lol!!! Welcome to the club and as your initiation you need to go check out this series, go on it's worth it.

*************************

An audio book of 'The Long and Winding Road' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.