Long Way Home

by Tammy L. Grace

Grief carved her path—can love rebuild what’s gone?

Amelia stumbles into Friday Harbor broken, a mother’s deepest loss tearing at her soul. Reeling from a grief no words can hold, she seeks the stillness of this coastal town to mend what’s left of her life. Instead, she finds Noah, a gentle soul with a golden retriever and a shadow of his own, alongside a 97-year-old veteran who’s seen it all.

Drawn together by dog-eared books and echoes of their pasts, Amelia and Noah build a fragile bond. But as her grief clashes with fresh fears and he faces a diagnosis that could change everything, trust feels like a gamble neither can afford. Will the warmth of new friends and sunlit shores give Amelia the strength to heal—and Noah the vision to hope again?

Long Way Home, the eighth installment in the Hometown Harbor Series, traces a woman’s midlife search for peace amid heartache, lit by quiet connection and second chances. If you cherish stories of resilience, soulful characters, and the comfort of found family, Tammy L. Grace crafts a tender refuge.

Read more from USA Today bestselling author, Tammy L. Grace

HOMETOWN HARBOR SERIES

Hometown The Beginning (Prequel Novella)Finding HomeHome BloomsPromise of HomePieces of HomeFinally HomeForever HomeFollow Me HomeLong Way HomeCome Home for ChristmasFeels Like HomeCOOPER HARRINGTON DETECTIVE NOVELS

Killer MusicDeadly ConnectionDead WrongCold KillerDeadly DeceptionDeadly PursuitGLASS BEACH COTTAGE SERIES

Beach HavenMoonlight BeachBeach DreamsSISTERS OF THE HEART SERIESGreetings from Lavender ValleyPathway to Lavender ValleySanctuary at Lavender ValleyBlossoms at Lavender ValleyComfort in Lavender ValleyReunion in Lavender ValleyCHRISTMAS BOOKS

A Season for Hope (Christmas in Silver Falls)The Magic of the Season (Christmas in Silver Falls)Christmas in Snow Valley (Hometown Christmas Series)One Unforgettable Christmas (Hometown Christmas Series)Christmas Sisters (FREE PREQUEL to Soul Sisters at Cedar Mountain Lodge)Christmas Wishes (Soul Sisters at Cedar Mountain Lodge)Christmas Surprises (Soul Sisters at Cedar Mountain Lodge)Christmas Shelter (Soul Sisters at Cedar Mountain Lodge)Christmas Hearts (Soul Sisters at Cedar Mountain Lodge)OTHER TITLESThe Wishing TreeWish AgainOverdue WishesOne More WishPick of the LitterHearts UnleashedWelcome AboardUncharted WatersWRITING AS CASEY WILSONA Dog's HopeA Dog's Chance

290 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 4, 2024

About the author

Tammy L. Grace is a USA Today bestselling and award winning author who writes women's fiction, mysteries, and sweet Christmas stories. She also writes about the bond we have with dogs using her pen name, Casey Wilson. Tammy is known for creating perfect escapes, unforgettable characters, and binge-worthy series.

When Tammy isn't working on ideas for a novel, she's spending time with family and friends or supporting her addiction to books and chocolate. She and her husband have one grown son and a spoiled golden retriever.

Tammy enjoys connecting with readers.
Website: http://www.tammylgrace.com
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Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/tammylg...
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Reviews

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like being wrapped in a warm blanket. I just love Tammy’s Hometown Harbor series!

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to find out there would be another novel in Tammy Grace’s Hometown Harbor series. I have read every single one of this series and loved each one of them. They always give me the feeling of coming home and catching up with old friends myself. I love getting to know each of the wonderful characters, and now she has added two more to love! Her description of the beautiful, small cozy town of Friday Harbor, set in the San Juan Islands, make me wish I could live there myself, but to find and make such wonderful friends is truly the draw for me.

Long Way Home is the eighth book in the Hometown Harbor Series. In it you will meet Amelia and Noah. Amelia (you may have met in Tammy Grace’s Sisters of the Heart series) has traveled to Friday Harbor to visit with her (newly found) sister Georgia, and to escape the reminders surrounding her in her new home in Driftwood Bay (from Tammy Grace’s Glass Beach Cottage Series), after a horribly devastating loss. Noah is an author who has also escaped to Friday Harbor with his Golden Retriever Goose, to write his next book, and where he learns some devastating news of his own.

Thanks to Goose, Amelia and Noah meet and become good friends. Could there be more to their relationship, or are the tragedies in their lives keeping them at arm’s length?

Since I’m not one to give away the story, I will leave it there. You’ll have to read to find out how Amelia and Noah navigate this next stage in their lives, and whether they can take their relationship to the next level! I love Tammy Grace’s style of writing, and you can be sure her stories will be heartwarming with lots of furry friends included!

[Margaret Osmond · Rating 5 out of 5]

can’t recommend this book more highly, it is one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read, it tells the story of Amelia and will take you from the depths of despair through the healing process with the help of her newly found sister, Georgia and new friends to being able to look at the future with hope.
She travels with her sister to her home in Friday Harbor to escape her pain and meets Noah who is also having to come to terms about testing for a serious medical condition which could change his life. Together with their dogs they slowly start to get back to a new reality and find themselves having a little peace and comfort with each other. Honestly, I did a lot of crying reading this book, the emotions are strong but as with every Tammy Grace story strength, friends and dogs have a way of showing that there is life at the end of the tunnel, and you will smile again.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for the ARC. All opinions are my own. Amelia suffers a tremendous loss, and her new-found sister, Georgia encourages her to come to the island for some rest and redemption. Amelia discovers an whole new set of friends, including a sweet Golden named Faith. She owns a bookstore in Driftwood Bay and discovers that one of her favorite authors is also living on the island. Tammy L. Grace’s characters always have so much depth to them and not everything comes up rosy, but there’s still hope. This entire series is wonderful. Each book has an ending, no cliffhangers. But, many characters reappear in each book, so starting at the beginning gives so much more meaning to each person.

[Victoria Bahnsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this series which includes great characters, a beautiful setting, stories of friends and family, love and loss, resilience and second chances.

This latest addition introduces a couple of new characters – Amelia and Noah - who have each arrived on the island after life-altering events. They meet unexpectedly and find they have much in common. It’s the start of a beautiful friendship…and perhaps something more.

What follows is a heartwarming story that centers on the power of human connection and the promise of hope.

Perfection!

Thanks to the author for this advanced review copy. In return, I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review. All opinions and thoughts are my own.

[Tami Long · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am thrilled that Tammy L. Grace has released another book in her beloved Hometown Harbor Series. Long Way Home is book 8, and might be my favorite yet! While reconnecting with the characters from the first 7 books, you will also meet two new island visitors, Amelia and Noah. The two have both endured enormous challenges, with each facing an unknown future. Could they be the answer for each other?

This is an inspiring story of hope, strength and perseverance in the face of adversity. Combined with the beauty of the island, the unwavering support of friends and a few faithful dogs, you have another Tammy L. Grace winner!

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the author and opinions expressed are my own.

[Patty Guerard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really love this series by Tammy Grace, and I highly recommend it. Every time I read one of the books, it feels like I am going home to visit old friends and meet new friends. I love how she gave Georgia’s sister, Amelia, her own story, one of overwhelming grief which grows into unexpected moments of sweet joy and a promising future. From making new friends in Friday Harbor, finding a loving companion in a Golden Retriever named Faith, connecting with some senior citizens, and a comfortable relationship with Noah and his Golden, it’s possible her wounded soul is beginning its healing process. I am so happy that Tammy is continuing this series, bringing in connections to her Lavender Valley and Beach Haven series.

[Carol Ardeeser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long Way Home is bk 8 in the Hometown Harbor series and fits perfectly with the other books. A wonderful reunion with the other characters and the addition of some new ones. A heartwarming story of loss and new beginnings. Amelia is trying to heal from a great loss and finds friends who surround her with love and care as she begins a new chapter in her life. She finds new purpose in helping others that takes her mind from her problems to performing good for others. Her story fits so closely with the stories of her new friends as she allows them to help her heal. The whole series is absolutely uplifting as we see healing and friendships that can't be beat!!

[Sue Librandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was so nice to visit old friends again. It was so nice to incorporate the "Sisters of the Heart" and Driftwood Bay. This book concentrated on Amelia that needed to grieve and get control of her life after her daughter and ex died in an accident. She meets Noah. She falls for him but unfortunately he has been diagnosed with an incurable disease. As with all of Tammie Graces' books, this book tugs at my heart.

[Janie G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great books, but always find errors in the plots

I enjoy Tammy Grace’s books, but I always find errors that her editing team somehow missed. In this book on page 13 (Kindle version), it made a big error twice indicating that a certain relative helped her in a particular situation, but it should have said the brother’s name. I don’t want to give details and spoil the plot, so I’m keeping it vague!

[Trish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long Way Home

It was such a treat to meet up with those we’ve met in previous Hometown Harbor stories. I found comfort in Amelia being able to continue to find peace among her loss. Henry and Doris are a nice addition to the group.
Thanks Tammy Grace for writing books I love to read.

[christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long Way Home

What does one say when you read a book that has topics of normal every day life, the tragic loss of a child, getting over a divorce, a genetic disease that will still your quality of life and knowing you could pass it onto your children, finding companionship and love. I say beautiful, emotional, fantastic and uplifting. A Must Read. Enjoy

[Peggy Sutton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful!

So glad to be back on the island with such wonderful old friends and meeting new ones. A great story about loss and moving on. What could have easily become a very sad story turns into one of hope and faith. Wonderfully written. I love all of the characters in this series. Cannot wait for a return to the island.

[Erin McKain · Rating 5 out of 5]

loving this last book of the series

Even though it didn’t feature the main characters from the first 7 books as much, it still featured them and this 8th book tied in well with the series. The story is just as lovely and hearing that the difficulties for Noah and Amelia just brought them closer together and finding a way to make things work made the ending a good one!

[Rosana Cogle · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first few pages this book takes you back on a journey to revisit the beloved residents of the Hometown Harbor series. The descriptions of the characters are well done and give the reader a through glimpse into their lives and what brought them to the island. Amelia was briefly introduced in the Sisters of the Heart series through her sister Geogia. Amelia and Georgia's story began later in life and finding each other after years of being separated at birth after adoption. In this story we get to know Amelia better and find out what tragic event brought her to the island. We also got a chance to meet Noah and learn about his exciting profession as an accomplished writer. Noah's story is tragic like Amelia's, but both are inspiring. Tammy L. Grace has written a powerful story of moving on after life's tragic events and this book clearly demonstrates the power of the human spirit. I highly recommend this book; it is entertaining and heartwarming. I received this ARC in return for my unbiased review.

[Nancie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it. It has characters from three of her series and the tie ins are fun if you know the characters already. It was a beautiful story. Another winner by Tammy! I highly recommend reading this book.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

As always Tammy L. Grace’s books are always great. I am always ready for the next Long way Home was excellent and had me looking up the disease to find out myself what it was all about.

[Cheryl McCrork · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Very Good Book

The characters were fun and very loving. The loss of loved ones just really just sets a person into emotional spin. The love of family and friends was so great. The love and support of a dog is wonderful. I really enjoyed this book from start to finish.

[L Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the entire series but this one went right to my heart. Please keep the series going! We need updates!! They’ve become our friends & family too!

[teri miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

great read

Great story hopefully they will appear in more books
Looking forward to reading more from this author. Looking now for books

[Alona · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute amazing story. I love the characters in this series. Very thought provoking!

[Rick Dela Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent writings

Beautifully written, loved the book. Warms my heart reading before bedtime. Will continue to read series. Thank you Tammy for being such a great author.

[Geneva Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

As usual, a clean written story. I enjoyed it very much. The only thing I wish they would do when gathering for a meal is to have someone say a blessing.

[Marlyn Chadderton]

I loved the story. Relaxing Reading.

[Anne-Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I have read this year!
Absolutely loved it.

This is the first book I have read in the series and I hope I get to read the rest of them. I fell in love with the characters and the story. There is a trigger, death, at least for me. But it didn't stop me from reading one of the best stories of the year.

Finding a place where Amelia can grieve and finding new friends who help her along the way. It couldn't get any better. The author did a wonderful job portraying the grief process. The new friends Amelia makes are friends I would love to have. The setting of the book couldn't get any quainter if it tried. A place I would love to visit and possibly live there. The story is well developed as well as the characters.

HIGHLY recommend this book.
I wish I could give it a higher rating than 5 stars. I'm not eloquent with my reviews but I truly loved every word of this story. It is a story that will stick with me.

[Chris Corkell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Page Turner

I love this series such a great read.
I hope these books continue they pull you into the characters and the town.

[Pam Fleming · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great addition to the series. Amelia is devastated after tragic family losses. She comes to visit her sister Georgia and is immediately embody wonderful carypeople of the community. Soon Amelia finds herself involved with a friendly group of people. She embraces a role in community service,
Working to deliver boxes of food, and helping managing a little free library. When Georgia returns to be with Dale, Amelia stays at the island to continue healing.

Daily walks with her dog Faith, offer Amelia a sense of family. As she interacts with the author Noah, Amelia helps him face devastating news of his own

Neighbors really depend on each other for wonderful support is a special theme throughout the storyline. Second chances, love and loss are key story elements.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.

[Phyllis Jones Pisanelli Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long Way Home is the eighth book in the Hometown Harbor Series by Tammy L. Grace. I love this series so far. I don’t think I’ve read all of the books and I promise you I’m going to sit down and figure out which ones I’ve read and get caught up this winter. I have been saving space in my schedule to read some books I have wanted to read for a long time.

This book takes place in the small town of Friday Harbor. Tammy gives us such an idyllic description of this town and the year around residents that inhabit Friday Harbor. If I could, I would pack my bags and live there. The characters are so welcoming and friendly. This book is the story of Amelia and Noah. I remember Noah from another series and how he made his way to this wonderful place.

Noah has a life-altering shadow over him and Amelia is healing from a devastating loss. These two characters were made for each other. While Amelia is staying at a friend's home she does some volunteer work delivering food to some elderly and needy people. I enjoyed some of the residents that she came to know and love. I am not sure that any author can develop the characters that Tammy does. I always find myself shedding tears or grinning with happiness for them. I don’t know how she does it but she has a unique talent.

If you love stories of family and friendship with hints of romance and definitely clean romance, then the books of the Hometown Series by Tammy L. Grace should definitely be on your radar. She is at the top of my favorite author list. You can’t go wrong when you pick one of them up to read. These books can all be read as stand alone novels and Long Way Home is not an exception. Until next time…Happy Reading!

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.