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Downeast #1
Homecoming
Who says you can’t go home again?
For years, Kara Ballard Torrington has kept her distance from the town in Maine where she was raised and the boisterous, often-troubled Ballard family. She’s made a whole new life for herself on Gansett Island that is upended by a phone call in which she learns that two of her brothers have been accused of murder. When her parents ask her husband, celebrated attorney Dan Torrington, to come help them, Kara is forced to confront the drama she left behind in Maine as well as a whole new set of issues that have arisen in her absence. As Dan works to free her brothers, Kara confronts some of the unfinished business she left behind in Maine.
One of our favorite couples from the Gansett Island Series takes a fraught journey to Kara’s hometown, where their bond becomes even stronger as they face these new challenges together—with a goal of returning home to Gansett before their baby is born.
For more about Dan & Kara’s story, make sure you’ve read Dan & A Downeast Prequel.
For years, Kara Ballard Torrington has kept her distance from the town in Maine where she was raised and the boisterous, often-troubled Ballard family. She’s made a whole new life for herself on Gansett Island that is upended by a phone call in which she learns that two of her brothers have been accused of murder. When her parents ask her husband, celebrated attorney Dan Torrington, to come help them, Kara is forced to confront the drama she left behind in Maine as well as a whole new set of issues that have arisen in her absence. As Dan works to free her brothers, Kara confronts some of the unfinished business she left behind in Maine.
One of our favorite couples from the Gansett Island Series takes a fraught journey to Kara’s hometown, where their bond becomes even stronger as they face these new challenges together—with a goal of returning home to Gansett before their baby is born.
For more about Dan & Kara’s story, make sure you’ve read Dan & A Downeast Prequel.
359 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 28, 2025
403 people are currently reading
182 people want to read
About the author
Marie Force
209 books8,442 followersMarie Force is the New York Times bestselling author of contemporary romance, romantic suspense and erotic romance. Her series include Gansett Island, Fatal, Treading Water, Butler Vermont and Quantum.
Her books have sold more than 12 million copies worldwide, have been translated into more than a dozen languages and have appeared on the New York Times bestseller more than 30 times. She is also a USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestseller, as well as a Speigel bestseller in Germany.
Her goals in life are simple—to finish raising two happy, healthy, productive young adults, to keep writing books for as long as she possibly can and to never be on a flight that makes the news.
Join Marie’s mailing list on her website at marieforce.com for news about new books and upcoming appearances in your area. Follow her on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/MarieForceAuthor and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/marieforceauthor/. Contact Marie at marie@marieforce.com.
Her books have sold more than 12 million copies worldwide, have been translated into more than a dozen languages and have appeared on the New York Times bestseller more than 30 times. She is also a USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestseller, as well as a Speigel bestseller in Germany.
Her goals in life are simple—to finish raising two happy, healthy, productive young adults, to keep writing books for as long as she possibly can and to never be on a flight that makes the news.
Join Marie’s mailing list on her website at marieforce.com for news about new books and upcoming appearances in your area. Follow her on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/MarieForceAuthor and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/marieforceauthor/. Contact Marie at marie@marieforce.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
February 28, 2025
Love love love
Love, love, love it - as always with this author you get a heart felt read and its one that you don't want to put down (you might get mad at life if it interrupts you from reading), can't wait to see what Dan and Kara have, and I'm so glad that she was able to go home and settle her doubts with her family, Dan is such a procter.
Love, love, love it - as always with this author you get a heart felt read and its one that you don't want to put down (you might get mad at life if it interrupts you from reading), can't wait to see what Dan and Kara have, and I'm so glad that she was able to go home and settle her doubts with her family, Dan is such a procter.
March 16, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
March 19, 2025
Another great read from Marie Force and this time she swept us off to Maine. Love Kara and Dans story so this addition to it was a bonus. Fingers crossed we get to hear more about Renata and Myles? Maybe a whole Ballard series next???
April 6, 2025
An emotional return to Maine for Kara
Kara never imagined she would return to her hometown, especially not for an emergency like this. And whilst it is still a bit of an emotional rollercoaster to face certain family members and have the press dig up "old news", we see that Kara has grown in her time away and she is far stronger than she thinks. Dan and his love have given her the self confidence she was lacking previously and it is awesome to see her more secure in herself as she faces difficult situations and people she would rather avoid. There is so much love between Dan and Kara, it is lovely to see and it rubs off on all those around them.
I loved meeting the very dysfunctional Ballard family, especially Bertha and Buster, I would love to see more of all her siblings and I am a little sad that this is not the start of a new Downeast series, but hopefully we will see lots of them in future Gansett Island books.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
Kara never imagined she would return to her hometown, especially not for an emergency like this. And whilst it is still a bit of an emotional rollercoaster to face certain family members and have the press dig up "old news", we see that Kara has grown in her time away and she is far stronger than she thinks. Dan and his love have given her the self confidence she was lacking previously and it is awesome to see her more secure in herself as she faces difficult situations and people she would rather avoid. There is so much love between Dan and Kara, it is lovely to see and it rubs off on all those around them.
I loved meeting the very dysfunctional Ballard family, especially Bertha and Buster, I would love to see more of all her siblings and I am a little sad that this is not the start of a new Downeast series, but hopefully we will see lots of them in future Gansett Island books.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
February 23, 2025
Review of Homecoming by Marie Force:
Just finished @Marie Force’s latest novel and once again, I’m blown away by this amazing, talented author! Here’s my review;
Marie Force welcomes readers back Dan & Karan Torrington,the beloved characters of her Gansett Island series. Homecoming, a novel that beautifully channels the series while offering a deeper, more intimate look into the lives of Dan and Kara Torrington and Kara’s extended family. Fans of the original Gansett Island series have long followed their journey, but this installment peels back the layers of their relationship, exploring the emotional nuances of their marriage, personal growth, and the evolving dynamics of their family life, as well as offering a glimpse into Kara’s life before Gansett.
Force masterfully intertwines their story with a vibrant pulse, while introducing a new setting in Bar Harbor, Maine, and draws her readers into fresh, compelling narratives with her trademark style. The introduction of new characters adds another layer of warmth, seamlessly integrating the new community in a way that makes them instantly lovable. These additions not only enrich the fabric of her prose that captivates her readers.
What makes Homecoming stand out is its emotional depth. Force doesn’t just give us a surface-level continuation; she delves into the real struggles and triumphs of life on the island, showing that love—whether rekindled, tested, or newly found—is at the heart of every story. With her signature blend of humor, romance, and heartfelt emotion, Homecoming is more than just a look into the Ballard family—it’s a reaffirmation of why these characters continue to resonate with readers.
For longtime fans, Homecoming feels like a return to family, a reminder that no matter how much time passes, the heart of the Ballard family beats on. And for newcomers, it’s a welcoming invitation to discover why Miss Force has captured so many hearts.
#homecoming #justice #dankara #bookworm #love
#BarHarborMaine #romance #love #marieforcebooks
Just finished @Marie Force’s latest novel and once again, I’m blown away by this amazing, talented author! Here’s my review;
Marie Force welcomes readers back Dan & Karan Torrington,the beloved characters of her Gansett Island series. Homecoming, a novel that beautifully channels the series while offering a deeper, more intimate look into the lives of Dan and Kara Torrington and Kara’s extended family. Fans of the original Gansett Island series have long followed their journey, but this installment peels back the layers of their relationship, exploring the emotional nuances of their marriage, personal growth, and the evolving dynamics of their family life, as well as offering a glimpse into Kara’s life before Gansett.
Force masterfully intertwines their story with a vibrant pulse, while introducing a new setting in Bar Harbor, Maine, and draws her readers into fresh, compelling narratives with her trademark style. The introduction of new characters adds another layer of warmth, seamlessly integrating the new community in a way that makes them instantly lovable. These additions not only enrich the fabric of her prose that captivates her readers.
What makes Homecoming stand out is its emotional depth. Force doesn’t just give us a surface-level continuation; she delves into the real struggles and triumphs of life on the island, showing that love—whether rekindled, tested, or newly found—is at the heart of every story. With her signature blend of humor, romance, and heartfelt emotion, Homecoming is more than just a look into the Ballard family—it’s a reaffirmation of why these characters continue to resonate with readers.
For longtime fans, Homecoming feels like a return to family, a reminder that no matter how much time passes, the heart of the Ballard family beats on. And for newcomers, it’s a welcoming invitation to discover why Miss Force has captured so many hearts.
#homecoming #justice #dankara #bookworm #love
#BarHarborMaine #romance #love #marieforcebooks
March 23, 2025
I loved this story! Dan and Kara are a fun couple and so entertaining. I loved getting to see their trip back to her home town, despite the reason for it. It was a crazy situation for Kara’s brothers to be accused of murder, but Dan was the perfect person for them to call. I enjoyed the emotional journey she went on being back home. She went through a lot of healing, which I thought was written beautifully. Getting to see Dan at work was amazing, as always, and he fit in with her family seamlessly. I look forward to more from this new series.
March 2, 2025
4.25⭐
Dan and Kara are among my favourite couples from Gansett Island, so I was thrilled to see them return to Bar Harbor, Kara's hometown, for a story centred around them.
In this instalment, Dan and Kara come back when two of Kara's siblings are arrested for murder, and her mother desperately wants Dan to prove their innocence.
However, Dan is primarily concerned about his beloved wife, Kara, and although he is willing to help, he clearly states that she should not be hurt or overwhelmed with calls and texts. And if the situation becomes too much for Kara, they will head back to Gansett and the family they've created there.
But whilst Kara does have a few loved ones in Bar Harbor, particularly her grandmother Bertha and Uncle Buster, there is still a lot of emotional hurt that Marie explores beautifully throughout the story.
And at the heart, there are themes of family and the deep love Dan and Kara share, which I appreciated most, along with their playful bickering. However, I was expecting something more from the story, which is why my rating isn't higher.
I would though happily recommend to any fans of Dan & Kara or the Gansett Island series. ☺️
Dan and Kara are among my favourite couples from Gansett Island, so I was thrilled to see them return to Bar Harbor, Kara's hometown, for a story centred around them.
In this instalment, Dan and Kara come back when two of Kara's siblings are arrested for murder, and her mother desperately wants Dan to prove their innocence.
However, Dan is primarily concerned about his beloved wife, Kara, and although he is willing to help, he clearly states that she should not be hurt or overwhelmed with calls and texts. And if the situation becomes too much for Kara, they will head back to Gansett and the family they've created there.
But whilst Kara does have a few loved ones in Bar Harbor, particularly her grandmother Bertha and Uncle Buster, there is still a lot of emotional hurt that Marie explores beautifully throughout the story.
And at the heart, there are themes of family and the deep love Dan and Kara share, which I appreciated most, along with their playful bickering. However, I was expecting something more from the story, which is why my rating isn't higher.
I would though happily recommend to any fans of Dan & Kara or the Gansett Island series. ☺️
March 13, 2025
This was a fun branch off of the Gansett Island tree. It was good to get more info on Kara’s family. This was an easy book to read and enjoy.
April 29, 2025
I enjoyed this prequel to the new series! As I have with most Marie’s books!
March 19, 2025
There's an old saying, "You can't go home again." In this sugary sweet with just a hint of tartness Gansett Island adjacent story Kara Torrington learns you can because there's an equally old saying, "Time heals old wounds." As the blurb says when two of Kara's 8 brothers are charged with the murder of a young woman her parents reach out to her and her famous defense attorney husband Dan to come to Maine to defend them. But Dan working to get her brothers out of jail is little more than a secondary story here. The real story is Kara, standing up to those who have wronged her and reconnecting with the people she loved and left behind when she fled to Gansett Island. With much trepidation 7 months pregnant Kara agrees to return to the place she'd fled after her sister Kelly and her ex-fiancée Matt betrayed her and her parents acted as if they'd done nothing wrong. But this version of Kara is much stronger, more able to stand up to her sister and her parents. There are some tough conversations between Kara and her parents, her sister Kelly and even some of her closest childhood friends. While Kara had tried to remain in touch with her beloved maternal Grandmother Bertha, her cousin and BFF Renata and other close friends she discovers that letting her feud with her sister and her parents keep her from them for so long was a mistake. There's also a aonther story line about Renata with Kara's advice and the shining example of how happy she and Dan are together, convincing Renata to set her fears aside and give love a chance. The story closes with relationships healed and everyone agreeing to not allow time to slip bye without seeing each other more often.
March 3, 2025
What do you do when you get a phone call from your mother….asking for help? Though…not necessarily your help…but your husband’s help.
Help…that would require you to go home…a home you fled years ago…after your sister ‘stole’ (and then married) your fiancé.
Not to mention the ‘reason’ why your family would need your husband’s help…he’s a well-known defense attorney…lately taking on pro-bono cases to get those wrongly convicted out.
This is the situation facing Kara & Dan Torrington…after Kara gets a phone call as they’re leaving Victoria & Shannon’s wedding reception on Gansett Island.
I loved this book…getting to ‘meet’ Kara’s family…only a few have made appearances so far within the Gansett Island series…not to mention meeting some of Kara’s friends.
Curious to know what some of her family were accused of, that requires the ‘expertise’ of Dan Torrington—get a copy of Homecoming.
I devoured this book in a day…that’s right—I read it in probably about six hours. Currently Homecoming is a ‘standalone’ in the Downeast series (though there is the ‘prequel’—which is a compilation of basically all scenes of Dan & Kara throughout the Gansett Island series), as Marie Force decided that her plate was a little full to take on another new series.
I’m hoping that several of either Kara’s family (the ones she gets along with) or friends makes a ‘surprise’ appearance or two in upcoming Gansett Island books…and I wonder who will let it ‘slip’ to a McCarthy that he lost his cookies on a lobster boat??
Help…that would require you to go home…a home you fled years ago…after your sister ‘stole’ (and then married) your fiancé.
Not to mention the ‘reason’ why your family would need your husband’s help…he’s a well-known defense attorney…lately taking on pro-bono cases to get those wrongly convicted out.
This is the situation facing Kara & Dan Torrington…after Kara gets a phone call as they’re leaving Victoria & Shannon’s wedding reception on Gansett Island.
I loved this book…getting to ‘meet’ Kara’s family…only a few have made appearances so far within the Gansett Island series…not to mention meeting some of Kara’s friends.
Curious to know what some of her family were accused of, that requires the ‘expertise’ of Dan Torrington—get a copy of Homecoming.
I devoured this book in a day…that’s right—I read it in probably about six hours. Currently Homecoming is a ‘standalone’ in the Downeast series (though there is the ‘prequel’—which is a compilation of basically all scenes of Dan & Kara throughout the Gansett Island series), as Marie Force decided that her plate was a little full to take on another new series.
I’m hoping that several of either Kara’s family (the ones she gets along with) or friends makes a ‘surprise’ appearance or two in upcoming Gansett Island books…and I wonder who will let it ‘slip’ to a McCarthy that he lost his cookies on a lobster boat??
December 30, 2025
Kara and Dan go to Maine.
I forgot so much of Kara’s humor and Dan’s insufferable-ness. Way back in the Gansett series we met Kara who has a boat through her family’s Ballard Boat Works. She ran to Gansett after discovering her boyfriend or fiancée was seeing Kara’s sister Kelly. She really needed to get out of Maine. Then her parents backed her sister when she and Matt planned to get married.
Dan did not give up. He rode Kara’s boat as much as he could and still drove Kara crazy with his insufferable-ness. Fast forward to Dan and Kara marrying. And just when a hurricane went over Gansett, Kara receives a text from her mother that two of her brothers are in jail for murder.
Slim flies Kara and Dan to Maine. Awkward happens several times. First with her parents. Second with her childhood friends who claimed she deserted them. Then with Kelly and Matt, who now have a child. Kara is one of 11 kids so the dynamics of all of them was fun. Watching her mom eat crow was good too. Dan sees the holes in the arrest and gets to work to clear Keith and Kirby. Her grandmother Bertha and her uncle Buster are who she and Dan stay with. The cab driver reminds me of Francine’s husband on Gansett.
While a new group of people this is not a new series. It was nice to see where life is with Kara and Dan. Enjoyable read.
I forgot so much of Kara’s humor and Dan’s insufferable-ness. Way back in the Gansett series we met Kara who has a boat through her family’s Ballard Boat Works. She ran to Gansett after discovering her boyfriend or fiancée was seeing Kara’s sister Kelly. She really needed to get out of Maine. Then her parents backed her sister when she and Matt planned to get married.
Dan did not give up. He rode Kara’s boat as much as he could and still drove Kara crazy with his insufferable-ness. Fast forward to Dan and Kara marrying. And just when a hurricane went over Gansett, Kara receives a text from her mother that two of her brothers are in jail for murder.
Slim flies Kara and Dan to Maine. Awkward happens several times. First with her parents. Second with her childhood friends who claimed she deserted them. Then with Kelly and Matt, who now have a child. Kara is one of 11 kids so the dynamics of all of them was fun. Watching her mom eat crow was good too. Dan sees the holes in the arrest and gets to work to clear Keith and Kirby. Her grandmother Bertha and her uncle Buster are who she and Dan stay with. The cab driver reminds me of Francine’s husband on Gansett.
While a new group of people this is not a new series. It was nice to see where life is with Kara and Dan. Enjoyable read.
October 2, 2025
What a phenomenal read. Marie Force has a way with story telling and this one was fabulous.
We got a look at the Ballard family dynamics. It's been a long time since Kara went back home to Maine and if it wasn't for her two brothers Kirby and Keith being charged with murder I don't think she would have gone home.
Dan & Kara were asked to come to Maine and help her two brothers who had just been charged with murder.. Dan a highly respected attorney agreed to help Kara's brothers only because she wanted him to. When Dan started digging around and hired an investigator who did the leg work because he was a local and was more apt to get the information Dan would need his suspicions came to fruition. He figured since there was an eyewitness the police figured they had their men. Yep no they didn't. The way the story plays out and how the family little by little goes thru it's own healing process is beautiful. I adored Buster and Bertha and Ranata. The banter back and forth with everyone was priceless. What can I say I loved this story. Almost makes me want to go to Maine.
We got a look at the Ballard family dynamics. It's been a long time since Kara went back home to Maine and if it wasn't for her two brothers Kirby and Keith being charged with murder I don't think she would have gone home.
Dan & Kara were asked to come to Maine and help her two brothers who had just been charged with murder.. Dan a highly respected attorney agreed to help Kara's brothers only because she wanted him to. When Dan started digging around and hired an investigator who did the leg work because he was a local and was more apt to get the information Dan would need his suspicions came to fruition. He figured since there was an eyewitness the police figured they had their men. Yep no they didn't. The way the story plays out and how the family little by little goes thru it's own healing process is beautiful. I adored Buster and Bertha and Ranata. The banter back and forth with everyone was priceless. What can I say I loved this story. Almost makes me want to go to Maine.
March 20, 2025
I loved seeing Dan and Kara Torrington go to back to her home in Maine. All the characters are so well developed and the emotional feels are fabulous. I have 8 siblings and cannot imagine 3 more! The writing is superb as always. Dan takes the very best care of his Kara and she him. Bertha is an absolute delight and it was lovely to see her again. I do hope she make an appearance on Gansett Island. I am excited to see what Kara has and her and Dan's reaction. There was a boatload of feelings to sift through, and remarkably all the family does just that. There is a lovely resolution to the heartache Kara went through with her sister's and ex's betrayal. The side story of Renata and Myles was wonderful! They deserved a happy ending. Everyone did!! I am looking forward to the next Gansett Island book! They all are family to me! Great writing, magnificent characters, emotional relatable family drama, and beautiful love. i was vey happy to read this book.
April 5, 2025
Homecoming is book one in the new Downeast Series and it’s takes Kara and Dan away from Gansett Island and back to her hometown in Maine when two of her brothers are accused of murder.
What do you do when you get a call from your mother pleading for your husband’s help baring in mind you walked away from your family years ago when you were betrayed by your sister……
Kara and Dan decide to fly back to Maine so he can represent her brothers. What follows is a beautifully written story as Dan gets to work doing what he does best and Kara spends time with friends and her grandmother but it’s her mother and father realising the mistake they made with Kara and trying their best to show how much they love her that took this book to the next level.
This is a story about friendships, family, trust and moving on and I’m excited for what’s to come from the Downeast Series.
What do you do when you get a call from your mother pleading for your husband’s help baring in mind you walked away from your family years ago when you were betrayed by your sister……
Kara and Dan decide to fly back to Maine so he can represent her brothers. What follows is a beautifully written story as Dan gets to work doing what he does best and Kara spends time with friends and her grandmother but it’s her mother and father realising the mistake they made with Kara and trying their best to show how much they love her that took this book to the next level.
This is a story about friendships, family, trust and moving on and I’m excited for what’s to come from the Downeast Series.
May 8, 2025
This book was so disappointing and disjointed. As I read it, it sure seemed like Marie Force was planning to write this into a series, as she spent a lot of time describing all the 11 siblings in Kara’s family. I was excited to read a series where I didn’t have to know all the back characters. The Gannsett series just got two involved and about the older characters.
I was hopeful that this would be a start of a new series. It seemed like Dan and Kara might even move to Maine. But as Marie Force wrote after the book, she decided she didn’t have the time or energy to invest in a new series, so we are left here hanging at the end of book one. It would have been nice to have some kind of an epilogue to see Kara and Dan’s baby! I felt like the reader was really cheated in this one. The ending was so dissatisfying and ruined the book for me.
I was hopeful that this would be a start of a new series. It seemed like Dan and Kara might even move to Maine. But as Marie Force wrote after the book, she decided she didn’t have the time or energy to invest in a new series, so we are left here hanging at the end of book one. It would have been nice to have some kind of an epilogue to see Kara and Dan’s baby! I felt like the reader was really cheated in this one. The ending was so dissatisfying and ruined the book for me.
August 6, 2025
No place like home
Dan and Kara. Loved them in Gansett and even more after their prequel. Now we see them head to Bar Harbor to help her family, even while still not ready to see everyone due to their past behavior. Dan is a hoot with his conversations, ego, and love of Kara. Bertha and Buster quickly became favorites and not shockingly, this town and the characters came to life in vivid detail as Dan worked with locals to help his brothers in law. The usage of media and pi’s was a fun twist and so was how the siblings all interacted. The side romance was a delight and a pleasant addition to family. I know this technically is the end of this couple, town and family, but I hope we get to return to them either in this series or Gansett as quite a few of them were a delight to meet in this world.
Dan and Kara. Loved them in Gansett and even more after their prequel. Now we see them head to Bar Harbor to help her family, even while still not ready to see everyone due to their past behavior. Dan is a hoot with his conversations, ego, and love of Kara. Bertha and Buster quickly became favorites and not shockingly, this town and the characters came to life in vivid detail as Dan worked with locals to help his brothers in law. The usage of media and pi’s was a fun twist and so was how the siblings all interacted. The side romance was a delight and a pleasant addition to family. I know this technically is the end of this couple, town and family, but I hope we get to return to them either in this series or Gansett as quite a few of them were a delight to meet in this world.
March 4, 2025
I absolutely adore Kara and Dan, and this trip to Maine with them was amazing! Seriously, can you imagine growing up with 10 siblings? 2 was too many imo!
Kara has been estranged from her family and living in Gansett (read the series, it’s phenomenal!), and has been married to Dan, a lawyer renowned for getting the innocent free, for several years. When her family calls, she does what many of us would have a problem doing, she puts all those hurts, all the anger aside and they come running.
This book is about love, innocence and family. And when I say family, I don’t mean just your immediate family, I mean the family you cobble together along the way, the family that builds you up along the way.
Kara has been estranged from her family and living in Gansett (read the series, it’s phenomenal!), and has been married to Dan, a lawyer renowned for getting the innocent free, for several years. When her family calls, she does what many of us would have a problem doing, she puts all those hurts, all the anger aside and they come running.
This book is about love, innocence and family. And when I say family, I don’t mean just your immediate family, I mean the family you cobble together along the way, the family that builds you up along the way.
March 20, 2025
Good Book
Marie Force has a way of writing that involves a good story line as well as an extension family history line that keeps you on your toes and thinking to keep up with what’s happening, who’s who and where they fit in to the story. The part I thought that didn’t come out right was the way Kara thought and she was told by others not to forgive Kelly and Matt. But then Kara basically said she had in someway forgiven them. You need to forgive so it doesn’t eat you up from the inside, like cancer but you don’t have to forget (never forget) nor do you give that person the power to hurt you again. Forgiveness is more for the victim’s well being than the person who hurt you. So forgive and live the best life you can on your terms.
Marie Force has a way of writing that involves a good story line as well as an extension family history line that keeps you on your toes and thinking to keep up with what’s happening, who’s who and where they fit in to the story. The part I thought that didn’t come out right was the way Kara thought and she was told by others not to forgive Kelly and Matt. But then Kara basically said she had in someway forgiven them. You need to forgive so it doesn’t eat you up from the inside, like cancer but you don’t have to forget (never forget) nor do you give that person the power to hurt you again. Forgiveness is more for the victim’s well being than the person who hurt you. So forgive and live the best life you can on your terms.
April 13, 2025
Wow! Great read
Mac and Maddie book will always be my favorite Blaine and Tiffany was my second favorite. BUT i have to say that Dan and Kara book is tied as my second favorite. Dan a man who been hurt and never want to go threw that again. a Career that shines. Kara hurt and betrayed so badly she left everything she knew . Two amazing characters who ends up returning to where Kara hurt started but family is family and she loved most of them . Its ashamed that it takes a horrible disaster has to happen in order to bring a family together. Marie Force always bring you well written amazing journeys. They have so kuch emotions and pull you in with every page. Can't wait to read more about amazing Characters on Gansetts Island
Mac and Maddie book will always be my favorite Blaine and Tiffany was my second favorite. BUT i have to say that Dan and Kara book is tied as my second favorite. Dan a man who been hurt and never want to go threw that again. a Career that shines. Kara hurt and betrayed so badly she left everything she knew . Two amazing characters who ends up returning to where Kara hurt started but family is family and she loved most of them . Its ashamed that it takes a horrible disaster has to happen in order to bring a family together. Marie Force always bring you well written amazing journeys. They have so kuch emotions and pull you in with every page. Can't wait to read more about amazing Characters on Gansetts Island
February 19, 2025
Was lucky enough to receive my print book ahead of release date!
Immediately started reading and thoroughly enjoyed having Dan and Kara front and center. All the hallmarks of a great Marie Force book are here: engaging story line, great characters (Bertha ftw!), humor, zingy dialogues, heartfelt scenes, and Dan and Kara’s chemistry is still off the charts. It was great to meet Kara’s family and bonus love story developments. I do hope to see them again in future Gansett books.
This was such a page turner and every Gansett fan, every Marie Force fan will not be disappointed! Congrats Marie on another fantastic release!
Immediately started reading and thoroughly enjoyed having Dan and Kara front and center. All the hallmarks of a great Marie Force book are here: engaging story line, great characters (Bertha ftw!), humor, zingy dialogues, heartfelt scenes, and Dan and Kara’s chemistry is still off the charts. It was great to meet Kara’s family and bonus love story developments. I do hope to see them again in future Gansett books.
This was such a page turner and every Gansett fan, every Marie Force fan will not be disappointed! Congrats Marie on another fantastic release!
March 1, 2025
What a Ride!
Another fantastic book by Marie Force. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and meeting all the incredible characters. I loved the relationship between Kara & Bertha in particular. Dan worked hard to defend Kara’s brothers & found some talented people to dig for information to help. Loved Renata & Kara’s friendship. Renata is a firecracker. It was nice to meet all 11 siblings of Kara’s. So many funny wisecracks. The best was the absolute devotion & love between Dan & Kara. I can’t wait for them to have their baby. A wonderful story that grabbed you from the start & took you on the best ride.
Another fantastic book by Marie Force. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and meeting all the incredible characters. I loved the relationship between Kara & Bertha in particular. Dan worked hard to defend Kara’s brothers & found some talented people to dig for information to help. Loved Renata & Kara’s friendship. Renata is a firecracker. It was nice to meet all 11 siblings of Kara’s. So many funny wisecracks. The best was the absolute devotion & love between Dan & Kara. I can’t wait for them to have their baby. A wonderful story that grabbed you from the start & took you on the best ride.
March 7, 2025
Dan and Kara are called back to Kara‘s hometown because two of her brothers have been arrested and are charged with murder.
While in Maine Kara has to face her past and all the people she left behind when she left after her sister‘s and former fiancé’s betrayal. At the same time Dan works his attorney magic to proof her brothers‘ innocence.
Dan is hilarious. I love the relationship between him and Kara. So, I enjoyed learning more about them. I could also relate to Kara‘s feelings and troubles and I love to see how much she has changed/grown.
I hope to see some of the cast on Gansett because they were fun and interesting and could bring lots of interesting stories.
While in Maine Kara has to face her past and all the people she left behind when she left after her sister‘s and former fiancé’s betrayal. At the same time Dan works his attorney magic to proof her brothers‘ innocence.
Dan is hilarious. I love the relationship between him and Kara. So, I enjoyed learning more about them. I could also relate to Kara‘s feelings and troubles and I love to see how much she has changed/grown.
I hope to see some of the cast on Gansett because they were fun and interesting and could bring lots of interesting stories.
Read
April 4, 2025I loved reading the series of Marie Forces' books, about the President & the extended family, and happy this was a different story. (while still a background of crime as a character here also - good job of it being toned down). The author is in control of all the characters, major and minor, and the pace of all the characters and events flow seamlessly. You will love it! Don't worry, it is a great story with the plotlines are wrapped up neatly in a logical ending that all can appreciate, as it is a very happy ever after one. I actually had hoped there would be a sequel but.... (sigh ;>b )
April 15, 2025
Another Winner
Dan & Kara are favorites from a previous Gansett Island book. This new novel takes them to Maine and introduces us to more of Kara’s big messy family. They go reluctantly when two of Kara’s brothers are arrested on murder charges & Kara’s parents ask Dan to represent the brothers. But their reluctant trip turns into a true homecoming when Kara reunites with the friends and family she left behind years before when her sister Kelly betrayed her. I predict many more happy trips back to Maine for this couple, and maybe some new adventures for other siblings. Marie Force is a great story teller & her books are a delight to read.
Dan & Kara are favorites from a previous Gansett Island book. This new novel takes them to Maine and introduces us to more of Kara’s big messy family. They go reluctantly when two of Kara’s brothers are arrested on murder charges & Kara’s parents ask Dan to represent the brothers. But their reluctant trip turns into a true homecoming when Kara reunites with the friends and family she left behind years before when her sister Kelly betrayed her. I predict many more happy trips back to Maine for this couple, and maybe some new adventures for other siblings. Marie Force is a great story teller & her books are a delight to read.
March 2, 2025
Although the basis of the story dealt with a serious subject, I thoroughly enjoyed visiting the world of Kara and Dan. Their love knows no bounds and they are absolutely hilarious together. Drudging through the drama of Kara’s dysfunctional family was intriguing and full of many different personalities. Bertha was adorable and such an inspiration to Kara’s upbringing. As usual Dan proves to be the great lawyer he has been praised for. Looking forward to the arrival of Dylan and their return to their Gansett family. ❤️❤️❤️
March 7, 2025
You Won’t be Disappointed
To put it simply, this is a wonderful read. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and how it unfolds on the page. The characters, not sure what I can say but they’re great. (Imagine Tony the Tiger saying that). The thing that most intrigues me are the rest of the characters and their stories, which I’m already pondering. Looking forward to more stories about Maine.
Thank you Marie for another book with characters that are worth the time to get to know them. When will #2 be available?
To put it simply, this is a wonderful read. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and how it unfolds on the page. The characters, not sure what I can say but they’re great. (Imagine Tony the Tiger saying that). The thing that most intrigues me are the rest of the characters and their stories, which I’m already pondering. Looking forward to more stories about Maine.
Thank you Marie for another book with characters that are worth the time to get to know them. When will #2 be available?
March 9, 2025
Dan and Kara head to Maine because two of her brothers are in jail, accused of murder. Returning home is bittersweet for Kara, so much baggage, but between her grandmother and Dan, she begins to rebuild relationships she left behind when she moved to Gansett Island. Dan works his magic to get the brothers out of jail and Kara's family finally figure out the future of their boat business and heal wounds. A great story which keeps you entertained and reading long into the night. Marie Force never disappoints!
March 21, 2025
I've always wanted to know more about Kara and her family and this story was the best way we got that. I loved how we get loads of her and Dan and see again how hard they love each other. Kara & Dan have been on of my fav Gansett couples and having this book for just them was perfect. Also love that we get another story as well which was perfect. I love how we get to know this family through both Dan & Kara. This was just the perfect way to give us this family and show us what Kara has put up with and no wonders she loves Gansett. I loved it and wait for more of them in the next Gansett book.
April 2, 2025
Homecoming by Marie Force
Dan and Kara’s story about returning to Maine to find out how her two brothers were charged with murder. It forced Kara to see the family members that hurt her so deeply. She was able to see that they no longer had a way to hurt her. Her love for Dan and his support and love for her gave her the strength to handle what happened before and move past it. Dan worked his magic and her innocent brothers were released. It also showed her that you can return home.
Dan and Kara’s story about returning to Maine to find out how her two brothers were charged with murder. It forced Kara to see the family members that hurt her so deeply. She was able to see that they no longer had a way to hurt her. Her love for Dan and his support and love for her gave her the strength to handle what happened before and move past it. Dan worked his magic and her innocent brothers were released. It also showed her that you can return home.
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