What do you think?
Rate this book
Montana Born Homecoming #4
The Long Way Home
At eighteen, Abby Foster had been the cutest little rich gal in Marietta, Montana. She could make boys do whatever she wanted—especially sweet, wild, penniless Joe Carlyle, who adored her. But a lot’s changed in the eight years since Abby broke Joe’s heart by marrying the rich guy her domineering father chose for her. Her father has died, and the “perfect” husband has bolted, taking all the money. More importantly, Abby’s grown up. She’s vowed to stop listening to other people and follow her own heart instead.
Right now, her heart tells her to return to Marietta. The wildfire she felt in Joe’s arms has haunted her, and, though she doesn’t expect forgiveness, she hopes maybe he, too, would enjoy a brief, no-strings affair. If they can share just the seventy-two hours of Homecoming weekend…well, maybe then they’ll both find it easier to forgive, forget, and move on.
But when she sees him, she realizes how naive that idea was. The years have changed Joe, too…and the passionate, powerful man he’s become isn’t someone she’ll ever forget. This time the heart she breaks may be her own.
Montana Born Homecoming series
Book 1: Sing Me Back Home by Eve Gaddy
Book 2: Finding Home by Roxanne Snopek
Book 3: Hometown Hero by Dani Collins
Book 4: The Long Way Home by Kathleen O'Brien
Right now, her heart tells her to return to Marietta. The wildfire she felt in Joe’s arms has haunted her, and, though she doesn’t expect forgiveness, she hopes maybe he, too, would enjoy a brief, no-strings affair. If they can share just the seventy-two hours of Homecoming weekend…well, maybe then they’ll both find it easier to forgive, forget, and move on.
But when she sees him, she realizes how naive that idea was. The years have changed Joe, too…and the passionate, powerful man he’s become isn’t someone she’ll ever forget. This time the heart she breaks may be her own.
Montana Born Homecoming series
Book 1: Sing Me Back Home by Eve Gaddy
Book 2: Finding Home by Roxanne Snopek
Book 3: Hometown Hero by Dani Collins
Book 4: The Long Way Home by Kathleen O'Brien
101 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2014
16 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen O'Brien
145 books91 followersSince the day Harlequin bought her first novel, Kathleen has published more than 30 titles with them- everything from hot, sexy contemporaries to dark, brooding suspense. Read in more than 30 countries and 29 languages, she's a five-time finalist for the prestigious RWA RITA Award, a winner of the Maggie Award, and a three-time finalist for Romantic Times' Reviewer's Choice.
Kathleen comes from a family of writers, poets, and journalists- though she may be the one shameless romantic in the bunch. A true Cancer, she values home and family above everything and wouldn't dream of ditching a single friend, memory, gift, or love letter. Consequently, her office is a mess, full of books, colored cut glass, photo albums, Madame Alexander dolls, and a cockatiel who whistles the theme from "The X Files." She is addicted to Mozart and Elvis, Dancing With the Stars, Dorothy Dunnett novels, and sugar-free Popsicles.
Kathleen comes from a family of writers, poets, and journalists- though she may be the one shameless romantic in the bunch. A true Cancer, she values home and family above everything and wouldn't dream of ditching a single friend, memory, gift, or love letter. Consequently, her office is a mess, full of books, colored cut glass, photo albums, Madame Alexander dolls, and a cockatiel who whistles the theme from "The X Files." She is addicted to Mozart and Elvis, Dancing With the Stars, Dorothy Dunnett novels, and sugar-free Popsicles.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 17, 2016
Joe Carlyle, one part of the so-called Carlyle crazies, had fallen head over heels in love with Abby Foster at the age of seventeen, although the woman of his dreams was betrothed to another and his dreams started crushing. He said hurtful words about her, his world had crumpled and didn't want anything to do with her after she chose Blaine Watts. People thought Abby married Blaine who was almost twice her ago, because of his enormous wealth. But they didn't know half the truth why she was getting married in the first place.
Eight years later, Abby came back, divorced yet still stunningly beautiful. She went to Joe and told him straight that she had been a free woman for the last two years and that she wanted him back. Joe assumed that she only wanted him to fill her bed at night, since she was only back in Marietta for three days.
And there's the issue about Joe's new-found wealth. He became rich, thanks to his hard work and dedication. Of course, there are rumors swirling again that maybe Abby came back because Joe was no longer the scrawny poor man that he was.
The Long Way Home by Kathleen O’Brien is another beautiful story that left me feeling good. I finished reading it in one sitting and I had good vibes while reading it. I liked how Abby stood her ground after all those years and Joe, being a Carlyle crazie, was understandably mad at first, mad at her for leaving him ... and mad at her for still wanting her even after 8 years. They're really matched for each other.
Eight years later, Abby came back, divorced yet still stunningly beautiful. She went to Joe and told him straight that she had been a free woman for the last two years and that she wanted him back. Joe assumed that she only wanted him to fill her bed at night, since she was only back in Marietta for three days.
And there's the issue about Joe's new-found wealth. He became rich, thanks to his hard work and dedication. Of course, there are rumors swirling again that maybe Abby came back because Joe was no longer the scrawny poor man that he was.
The Long Way Home by Kathleen O’Brien is another beautiful story that left me feeling good. I finished reading it in one sitting and I had good vibes while reading it. I liked how Abby stood her ground after all those years and Joe, being a Carlyle crazie, was understandably mad at first, mad at her for leaving him ... and mad at her for still wanting her even after 8 years. They're really matched for each other.
October 9, 2014
This is a sweet reunion romance. Joe and Abby were high school sweethearts but Abby didn't have the maturity or courage to go against her fathers wish for her to marry a mature older man who could give her the live her dying father wanted.
Eight years later, Abby is back in Marrietta to face Joe and ask for one small thing. Joe didn't want to be happy about seeing the girl who broke his heart when he was seventeen. And he sure wasn't going to take up her offer for a hot weekend to make up for all the pain she'd caused him.
I really liked Joe's reaction to seeing Abby again. He was no longer the hotheaded passionate boy who'd wanted her to be miserable and suffer for what she'd done. It was great seeing them get to know each other again and see a little of what drew them together back when they were sweet seventeen.
This was a quiet read, not overly angsty but very sweet and with a nice family and community vibe.
Eight years later, Abby is back in Marrietta to face Joe and ask for one small thing. Joe didn't want to be happy about seeing the girl who broke his heart when he was seventeen. And he sure wasn't going to take up her offer for a hot weekend to make up for all the pain she'd caused him.
I really liked Joe's reaction to seeing Abby again. He was no longer the hotheaded passionate boy who'd wanted her to be miserable and suffer for what she'd done. It was great seeing them get to know each other again and see a little of what drew them together back when they were sweet seventeen.
This was a quiet read, not overly angsty but very sweet and with a nice family and community vibe.
October 25, 2014
(originally I marked this as a free download, but it was actually a NetGalley ARC. I had it confused with another title.)
This is a lover's reunited themed novella. Abby and Joe were in love in high school but Abby chose to marry a man 12 years her senior for money rather than be with Joe. 8 years later she comes back hoping to rekindle their romance, but Joe is hesitant to get his heart stomped on again.
This was a quick, sweet read, but lacked character development. the short page count really worked against it in that area. The romance was well done, if taken at face value. I chose not to think about it too hard and that made the story easy to accept.
I wouldn't mind trying something a bit longer by the author.
This is a lover's reunited themed novella. Abby and Joe were in love in high school but Abby chose to marry a man 12 years her senior for money rather than be with Joe. 8 years later she comes back hoping to rekindle their romance, but Joe is hesitant to get his heart stomped on again.
This was a quick, sweet read, but lacked character development. the short page count really worked against it in that area. The romance was well done, if taken at face value. I chose not to think about it too hard and that made the story easy to accept.
I wouldn't mind trying something a bit longer by the author.
October 6, 2014
***ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
Short and kind of cute but not nearly enough character development. For the life of me I could not relate to nor empathize with Abby. I get teenage angst but marriage is supposed to be a life long commitment...
Could not get a handle on Joe either. It felt like his romantic life remained dormant while Abby was away...kind of not healthy...and the insta-HEA? Hmmm...I wish there was more about Abby and Joe in the story and not so much of the other drama (Rafe). It was just ok for me...Sorry.
Short and kind of cute but not nearly enough character development. For the life of me I could not relate to nor empathize with Abby. I get teenage angst but marriage is supposed to be a life long commitment...
Could not get a handle on Joe either. It felt like his romantic life remained dormant while Abby was away...kind of not healthy...and the insta-HEA? Hmmm...I wish there was more about Abby and Joe in the story and not so much of the other drama (Rafe). It was just ok for me...Sorry.
September 3, 2017
Rating: 3.5 stars
The Long Way Home, A Homecoming Novella was an easy read. I was relieved that it wasn’t totally predictable. Sure, there was the expected happily ever after but the road to HEA had a few twists and turns. It’s the story of Joe Carlyle and Abigail “Abby” Foster. They were highschool sweethearts that ended up going in different directions when they graduated because of their different socio-economic status. Abby’s family had money and she was positioned to marry a rich guy and Joe’s family lived a more modest life as ranchers.
Clearly, I’m not giving anything away by saying that Abby’s somewhat arranged marriage falls apart. She returns home 8 years later with a proposition for Joe to spend the weekend with her at her hotel but he does something unexpected by denying her request. Instead, he wants to reconnect with her and understand what happened 8 years ago, as well as what happened with her marriage. Although Joe hasn’t stopped loving her, he is a much more mature man than he was 8 years ago. In addition, while she has no money, he has made a successful business venture that she is unaware of. Basically, they have a lot to learn about each other. Plus, Joe’s mom isn’t happy that Abby has re-appeared so that makes matters worse.
Although it didn’t follow the usual path, there was a lot about this book that was unrealistic. I mean, how do you come back to town after 8 years of radio silence and proposition someone? I can understand still being in love with someone but the love would be faded on some level. Plus, the Carlyle boys all go through some sort of crazy phase which just seemed weird to me. Maybe I’m just being too critical but I have to question some things.
*Received a copy of the book from the publisher and reviewed voluntarily.*
The Long Way Home, A Homecoming Novella was an easy read. I was relieved that it wasn’t totally predictable. Sure, there was the expected happily ever after but the road to HEA had a few twists and turns. It’s the story of Joe Carlyle and Abigail “Abby” Foster. They were highschool sweethearts that ended up going in different directions when they graduated because of their different socio-economic status. Abby’s family had money and she was positioned to marry a rich guy and Joe’s family lived a more modest life as ranchers.
Clearly, I’m not giving anything away by saying that Abby’s somewhat arranged marriage falls apart. She returns home 8 years later with a proposition for Joe to spend the weekend with her at her hotel but he does something unexpected by denying her request. Instead, he wants to reconnect with her and understand what happened 8 years ago, as well as what happened with her marriage. Although Joe hasn’t stopped loving her, he is a much more mature man than he was 8 years ago. In addition, while she has no money, he has made a successful business venture that she is unaware of. Basically, they have a lot to learn about each other. Plus, Joe’s mom isn’t happy that Abby has re-appeared so that makes matters worse.
Although it didn’t follow the usual path, there was a lot about this book that was unrealistic. I mean, how do you come back to town after 8 years of radio silence and proposition someone? I can understand still being in love with someone but the love would be faded on some level. Plus, the Carlyle boys all go through some sort of crazy phase which just seemed weird to me. Maybe I’m just being too critical but I have to question some things.
*Received a copy of the book from the publisher and reviewed voluntarily.*
March 23, 2018
Read as part of Montana Homecoming bundle. All novellas, all about Marietta, MT.
September 30, 2014
4.5 Stars
THE LONG WAY HOME is another opportunity to return to Marietta, Montana. This story is about second chance love. What made it special was it was about first love revisited…a chance to get it right. How many people have fantasized about that? You never really forget your first true love, do you? I think it has an impact because you are so young and innocent when it happens, and you believe it will last forever. Sometimes it does – and sometimes circumstances do not allow it to. That is what happened to Joe Carlyle and Abby Foster.
Joe was totally devastated when Abby agreed to marry an older man. She was only eighteen years old and they were in love. How could she do that? He KNEW she didn’t love Blaine Watts. She knew she didn’t either. Joe knew Abby’s father was to blame. Why didn’t she refuse to go through with it? If she really loved him, she would have.
Abby’s father was dying of cancer, and it was his dying wish to leave Abby in the hands of a good man who could take care of her in the same way that he had. He felt that Blain Watts was that man. Abby went along with it because she could not let her father down. He was dying. This is what he wanted. She HAD to do it. Thousands of dollars had been spent on the wedding. As badly as she wanted to back out, she just couldn’t do it. She knew that she was still in love with Joe, but he was a seventeen-year-old kid with nothing substantial to offer her other than his love. She must do what her father wants. It’s his dying wish.
Fast forward eight years. Abby is back in Marietta. She appears like a ghost during the fall homecoming festivities. Joe cannot believe she is actually there. Why? What does she want? He will NOT act happy to see her. He never really stopped loving Abby. He has tried to forget her and has moved forward with his life – dating almost every available woman in his area of the state. No one has really held his interest. He was engaged twice, but could never see it through. He has slowed down on the dating game and is focusing on the ranch and helping his mom with his younger brother Rafe, a seventeen-year-old, going through his “Carlyle Crazies” – a rite of passage for all the Carlyle boys. He absolutely will not get sucked into the drama that is Abby Foster Watts – no matter why she is back in town.
I loved this book. It was short, and sweet. The secondary characters were developed enough to benefit the story. They were true-to-life, with enough emotional intensity to make the story realistic and believable. THE LONG WAY HOME is well-written, nicely paced and holds your attention to the last page. I recommend!
*An advance reading copy was generously provided by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
THE LONG WAY HOME is another opportunity to return to Marietta, Montana. This story is about second chance love. What made it special was it was about first love revisited…a chance to get it right. How many people have fantasized about that? You never really forget your first true love, do you? I think it has an impact because you are so young and innocent when it happens, and you believe it will last forever. Sometimes it does – and sometimes circumstances do not allow it to. That is what happened to Joe Carlyle and Abby Foster.
Joe was totally devastated when Abby agreed to marry an older man. She was only eighteen years old and they were in love. How could she do that? He KNEW she didn’t love Blaine Watts. She knew she didn’t either. Joe knew Abby’s father was to blame. Why didn’t she refuse to go through with it? If she really loved him, she would have.
Abby’s father was dying of cancer, and it was his dying wish to leave Abby in the hands of a good man who could take care of her in the same way that he had. He felt that Blain Watts was that man. Abby went along with it because she could not let her father down. He was dying. This is what he wanted. She HAD to do it. Thousands of dollars had been spent on the wedding. As badly as she wanted to back out, she just couldn’t do it. She knew that she was still in love with Joe, but he was a seventeen-year-old kid with nothing substantial to offer her other than his love. She must do what her father wants. It’s his dying wish.
Fast forward eight years. Abby is back in Marietta. She appears like a ghost during the fall homecoming festivities. Joe cannot believe she is actually there. Why? What does she want? He will NOT act happy to see her. He never really stopped loving Abby. He has tried to forget her and has moved forward with his life – dating almost every available woman in his area of the state. No one has really held his interest. He was engaged twice, but could never see it through. He has slowed down on the dating game and is focusing on the ranch and helping his mom with his younger brother Rafe, a seventeen-year-old, going through his “Carlyle Crazies” – a rite of passage for all the Carlyle boys. He absolutely will not get sucked into the drama that is Abby Foster Watts – no matter why she is back in town.
I loved this book. It was short, and sweet. The secondary characters were developed enough to benefit the story. They were true-to-life, with enough emotional intensity to make the story realistic and believable. THE LONG WAY HOME is well-written, nicely paced and holds your attention to the last page. I recommend!
*An advance reading copy was generously provided by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 2, 2014
THE LONG WAY HOME kathleen O’Brien
At eighteen, Abby Foster had been the cutest little rich gal in Marietta, Montana. She could make boys do whatever she wanted—especially sweet, wild, penniless Joe Carlyle, who adored her. But a lot’s changed in the eight years since Abby broke Joe’s heart by marrying the rich guy her domineering father chose for her. Her father has died, and the “perfect” husband has bolted, taking all the money. More importantly, Abby’s grown up. She’s vowed to stop listening to other people and follow her own heart instead.
Right now, her heart tells her to return to Marietta. The wildfire she felt in Joe’s arms has haunted her, and, though she doesn’t expect forgiveness, she hopes maybe he, too, would enjoy a brief, no-strings affair. If they can share just the seventy-two hours of Homecoming weekend…well, maybe then they’ll both find it easier to forgive, forget, and move on.
But when she sees him, she realizes how naive that idea was. The years have changed Joe, too…and the passionate, powerful man he’s become isn’t someone she’ll ever forget. This time the heart she breaks may be her own.
This story is about second chance love.
how did Abby Foster and Joe Carlyle meet ?
Why did Abby marry Blaine Watts an older man?
will Abby Foster and Joe Carlyle forgive, forget, and move on ?
will Abby Foster and Joe Carlyle be more than friends?
who is your favorite character in this story?
And why?
THE LONG WAY HOME by kathleen O’Brien is a wonderful well written 4 stars book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by kathleen O’Brien.
The Secrets of Bell River (Harlequin Superromance\The Sisters of Bell River Ranch) by Kathleen O'Brien
The Substitute Bride (Montana Born Brides) (The Great Wedding Giveaway #7)by Kathleen O'Brien
Betting on the Cowboy (The Sisters of Bell River Ranch, #2)by Kathleen O'Brien
Reclaiming the Cowboy (Harlequin Superromance\The Sisters of Bell River Ranch) by Kathleen O'Brien
Wild for the Sheriff (The Sisters of Bell River Ranch) by Kathleen O'Brien
At eighteen, Abby Foster had been the cutest little rich gal in Marietta, Montana. She could make boys do whatever she wanted—especially sweet, wild, penniless Joe Carlyle, who adored her. But a lot’s changed in the eight years since Abby broke Joe’s heart by marrying the rich guy her domineering father chose for her. Her father has died, and the “perfect” husband has bolted, taking all the money. More importantly, Abby’s grown up. She’s vowed to stop listening to other people and follow her own heart instead.
Right now, her heart tells her to return to Marietta. The wildfire she felt in Joe’s arms has haunted her, and, though she doesn’t expect forgiveness, she hopes maybe he, too, would enjoy a brief, no-strings affair. If they can share just the seventy-two hours of Homecoming weekend…well, maybe then they’ll both find it easier to forgive, forget, and move on.
But when she sees him, she realizes how naive that idea was. The years have changed Joe, too…and the passionate, powerful man he’s become isn’t someone she’ll ever forget. This time the heart she breaks may be her own.
This story is about second chance love.
how did Abby Foster and Joe Carlyle meet ?
Why did Abby marry Blaine Watts an older man?
will Abby Foster and Joe Carlyle forgive, forget, and move on ?
will Abby Foster and Joe Carlyle be more than friends?
who is your favorite character in this story?
And why?
THE LONG WAY HOME by kathleen O’Brien is a wonderful well written 4 stars book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by kathleen O’Brien.
The Secrets of Bell River (Harlequin Superromance\The Sisters of Bell River Ranch) by Kathleen O'Brien
The Substitute Bride (Montana Born Brides) (The Great Wedding Giveaway #7)by Kathleen O'Brien
Betting on the Cowboy (The Sisters of Bell River Ranch, #2)by Kathleen O'Brien
Reclaiming the Cowboy (Harlequin Superromance\The Sisters of Bell River Ranch) by Kathleen O'Brien
Wild for the Sheriff (The Sisters of Bell River Ranch) by Kathleen O'Brien
October 22, 2014
Summary: When she was 18, Abby Foster married Blaine Watts, an older man chosen for her by her father and left Marietta, although she loved 17-year-old Joe Carlyle. Eight years later, she comes back to find Joe and ask for forgiveness before she starts a new life. Her offer is a hot weekend to make up for all the pain she caused him.
Joe Carlyle, one part of the so-called Carlyle crazies, had fallen head over heels in love with Abby. When she chose Blaine, he said hurtful words to her, his world had crumpled and didn't want anything to do with her.
So when faced with Abby’s offer, Joe assumes that she only wants him to fill her bed at night, since she was staying in Marietta for only three days. It had taken Joe forever to get over Abby, and he knows that if he agrees to this weekend, he will fall for her again only to have to watch her leave again.
The people of Marietta think that Abby chose Blaine because of his wealth and she has come back after her divorce because she knows that Joe is now rich.
This book by Kathleen O’Brien is about how Abby and Joe get to know each other again as level-headed adults and what happens to them in the weekend that Abby stays at Marietta.
My thoughts: This story is about reclaiming lost love.
The chemistry and emotions between Joe and Abby are portrayed well. It did not have unnecessary angst and angry revenge in the main characters that you normally see in such stories.
Although the story happens over a weekend, the years of history between the two makes it believable.
The secondary characters are also enjoyable. I particularly liked Joe’s mother, who is very protective of her boys, and his brother Rafe, who is going through his version of the ‘Carlyle crazies’.
This is a clean, quiet romance, with a nice family and community vibe.
Note: This book was given to me by Tule Publishing in exchange for an honest review. I thank them for that.
Read all my reviews at My Two Pennies' Worth
Joe Carlyle, one part of the so-called Carlyle crazies, had fallen head over heels in love with Abby. When she chose Blaine, he said hurtful words to her, his world had crumpled and didn't want anything to do with her.
So when faced with Abby’s offer, Joe assumes that she only wants him to fill her bed at night, since she was staying in Marietta for only three days. It had taken Joe forever to get over Abby, and he knows that if he agrees to this weekend, he will fall for her again only to have to watch her leave again.
The people of Marietta think that Abby chose Blaine because of his wealth and she has come back after her divorce because she knows that Joe is now rich.
This book by Kathleen O’Brien is about how Abby and Joe get to know each other again as level-headed adults and what happens to them in the weekend that Abby stays at Marietta.
My thoughts: This story is about reclaiming lost love.
The chemistry and emotions between Joe and Abby are portrayed well. It did not have unnecessary angst and angry revenge in the main characters that you normally see in such stories.
Although the story happens over a weekend, the years of history between the two makes it believable.
The secondary characters are also enjoyable. I particularly liked Joe’s mother, who is very protective of her boys, and his brother Rafe, who is going through his version of the ‘Carlyle crazies’.
This is a clean, quiet romance, with a nice family and community vibe.
Note: This book was given to me by Tule Publishing in exchange for an honest review. I thank them for that.
Read all my reviews at My Two Pennies' Worth
October 21, 2014
* I received through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
At 18 years old Abby Foster found herself having to make the toughest decision of her life. Barely an adult Abby has to decide if she should follow her dying father's wishes and marry the man he's chosen for her, or follow her heart and stay with the boy she loves.
Joe Carlyle was truly in love with Abby, but at 17 he wasn't even an adult and knew that he couldn't provide Abby with the things the older man who's ring she was wearing could. Joe's family never had money like Abby's did, but he hoped his love would be enough.
Sadly, Abby wasn't strong enough to stand up to the pressures and married Mr. Blaine Watts. Now years later, Abby's marriage is over and she heads back to her hometown of Marietta, Montana to win back Joe's love. Joe was shocked to see Abby back in town after eight years, and especially on homecoming weekend. Abby offers Joe a weekend fling, but Joe has never really gotten over Abby, and won't settle for anything less than forever.
The Long Way Home was a very sweet and touching novella about coming home and reclaiming lost love. While the story was short, I was able to read it in sitting, it is a wonder complete story. You really feel the chemistry and emotions between Joe and Abby throughout. While the course of the story is only a few days, the years of history between the two makes their quick reunion believable. I really enjoy the secondary story with Joe's family. All of the characters were very charming and added to the story. I love that this book didn't have any sex scenes, while I certainly enjoy a well written one, this book didn't need it. This was the first work I've read of Kathleen O'Brien and I loved it. I look forward to reading more from her.
At 18 years old Abby Foster found herself having to make the toughest decision of her life. Barely an adult Abby has to decide if she should follow her dying father's wishes and marry the man he's chosen for her, or follow her heart and stay with the boy she loves.
Joe Carlyle was truly in love with Abby, but at 17 he wasn't even an adult and knew that he couldn't provide Abby with the things the older man who's ring she was wearing could. Joe's family never had money like Abby's did, but he hoped his love would be enough.
Sadly, Abby wasn't strong enough to stand up to the pressures and married Mr. Blaine Watts. Now years later, Abby's marriage is over and she heads back to her hometown of Marietta, Montana to win back Joe's love. Joe was shocked to see Abby back in town after eight years, and especially on homecoming weekend. Abby offers Joe a weekend fling, but Joe has never really gotten over Abby, and won't settle for anything less than forever.
The Long Way Home was a very sweet and touching novella about coming home and reclaiming lost love. While the story was short, I was able to read it in sitting, it is a wonder complete story. You really feel the chemistry and emotions between Joe and Abby throughout. While the course of the story is only a few days, the years of history between the two makes their quick reunion believable. I really enjoy the secondary story with Joe's family. All of the characters were very charming and added to the story. I love that this book didn't have any sex scenes, while I certainly enjoy a well written one, this book didn't need it. This was the first work I've read of Kathleen O'Brien and I loved it. I look forward to reading more from her.
October 1, 2014
The Long Way Home is a really sweet romance about a second chance with a first love. Abby and Joe were just teenagers, but they were in love. Abby was a seemingly rich girl who had everything. Joe was "from the wrong side of the tracks." Abby didn't care; she loved him anyway. She didn't want to marry the rich older man her father had picked out for her and even planned to call off the wedding the night before. Abby then finds out her father is dying and wants to leave her in the arms of someone that he thinks can take care of her financially, so Abby goes through with the wedding, breaking Joe's (and her) heart.
Eight years later, Abby's marriage is over, and she's returned to Marietta. She is on her way through for job interviews and wants to spend the weekend with Joe. It took Joe forever to get over Abby, and he knows that if he agrees to this weekend, he will fall for her again only to have to watch her leave again.
I really enjoyed this novella. It is a sweet little romance about two people reconnecting and a glimpse at what can happen when someone never really got over their first love. For such a short story, I think the author did a great job of giving us enough information to get to know Abby and Joe plus enough conflict and tension to make us wonder if they would get together for the weekend or not. Great little romance, and I would recommend it.
Copy was provided for an honest review.
Eight years later, Abby's marriage is over, and she's returned to Marietta. She is on her way through for job interviews and wants to spend the weekend with Joe. It took Joe forever to get over Abby, and he knows that if he agrees to this weekend, he will fall for her again only to have to watch her leave again.
I really enjoyed this novella. It is a sweet little romance about two people reconnecting and a glimpse at what can happen when someone never really got over their first love. For such a short story, I think the author did a great job of giving us enough information to get to know Abby and Joe plus enough conflict and tension to make us wonder if they would get together for the weekend or not. Great little romance, and I would recommend it.
Copy was provided for an honest review.
December 2, 2014
I really enjoyed this second-chance novella. It’s a quick, light read without too much emotional angst. All the hurt happened eight years ago, and now it’s about forgiveness and getting to know each other again.
Joe’s a pretty special guy. He has every right to be angry and to resent Abby for what she did, but I guess once the Carlyle Crazies wore off he just became an all-round decent human being who prefers to talk things out than get revenge. I liked how he tried to guide his younger brother Rafe through a similar situation, though it would have been nice to have seen a bit more resolution with Rafe’s story.
Abby was hard to pin down at times. She did have reasons for getting married when she did, and as a pampered eighteen-year-old it’s clear why she went about things that way. I appreciated some of the decisions she was trying to make about her life, but since she rarely backed them up with her actions it was hard to care about her. I think she got off pretty lightly with her homecoming, though, especially since Joe was still around and a lot of people would have known what happened.
But none of that mattered while I was reading this. I liked Joe too much for him not to get what he wanted, and the way he went about it was so sweet. This guy is definitely beta rather than alpha, but I like that. You won’t find spite or revenge here, just talk, forgiveness and an adorable HEA.
(I received a free copy of this in exchange for an honest review.)
Joe’s a pretty special guy. He has every right to be angry and to resent Abby for what she did, but I guess once the Carlyle Crazies wore off he just became an all-round decent human being who prefers to talk things out than get revenge. I liked how he tried to guide his younger brother Rafe through a similar situation, though it would have been nice to have seen a bit more resolution with Rafe’s story.
Abby was hard to pin down at times. She did have reasons for getting married when she did, and as a pampered eighteen-year-old it’s clear why she went about things that way. I appreciated some of the decisions she was trying to make about her life, but since she rarely backed them up with her actions it was hard to care about her. I think she got off pretty lightly with her homecoming, though, especially since Joe was still around and a lot of people would have known what happened.
But none of that mattered while I was reading this. I liked Joe too much for him not to get what he wanted, and the way he went about it was so sweet. This guy is definitely beta rather than alpha, but I like that. You won’t find spite or revenge here, just talk, forgiveness and an adorable HEA.
(I received a free copy of this in exchange for an honest review.)
October 15, 2014
This ARC was provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was a sweet fast read that is perfect for a cold rainy day.
We start out meeting Abby the night before she is to be married to the wrong man. Only doing this to please her dying father she sacrifices the love of her life and in turn not only breaks herself but his as well.
Coming home after divorcing her husband 2 years ago she sets about meeting Joe and trying to right the wrongs of her past. Joe has been hurt and even though it has been years since he last saw Abby he hasn't really been able to get over her either. Though hesitant they spend the next couple of days together getting to know each other all over again. The love and heartache between these two characters is so sweet and compelling I couldn't put this book down.
The only reason I wasn't able to give this book a 5 star was because I felt that important issues had been overlooked such as the fact that Joe had been engaged two times in the years they had been separated. To me that made him feel a little to desperate and easy. Other than this I really enjoyed this sweet ride and look forward to reading another book by this very talented author.
This was a sweet fast read that is perfect for a cold rainy day.
We start out meeting Abby the night before she is to be married to the wrong man. Only doing this to please her dying father she sacrifices the love of her life and in turn not only breaks herself but his as well.
Coming home after divorcing her husband 2 years ago she sets about meeting Joe and trying to right the wrongs of her past. Joe has been hurt and even though it has been years since he last saw Abby he hasn't really been able to get over her either. Though hesitant they spend the next couple of days together getting to know each other all over again. The love and heartache between these two characters is so sweet and compelling I couldn't put this book down.
The only reason I wasn't able to give this book a 5 star was because I felt that important issues had been overlooked such as the fact that Joe had been engaged two times in the years they had been separated. To me that made him feel a little to desperate and easy. Other than this I really enjoyed this sweet ride and look forward to reading another book by this very talented author.
October 3, 2014
Abby Foster wants to go home to Marietta. Now that she's divorced, she plans to see her first and only love, Joe Carlyle. Can he forgive her for the mistake she made? Eight years ago she married to please her dying father and has regretted her choice ever since. Now she's divorced and knows what she wants. She needs that wild, sweet man that she loved. Joe is an unforgettable character. I fell for him immediately. He's patient, loving and honorable. He cares for his family and his horses. Abby did him wrong, but she's back now to make amends. She has learned from her mistakes and is a better person. I loved watching them put the past behind them and find their future together. Marietta is my favorite place to visit. The antics of Rafe, Joe's brother, as he goes through the Carlyle crazies is both humorous and emotional. Kathleen O'Brien has written a wonderful love story. Abby and Joe deserved a second chance to have a HEA. The Long Way Home satisfied my need for a sweet romance. I was so captivated that I hated to see it end.
October 28, 2014
Abby and Joe were high school sweethearts, until, right out of high school, she married the man her father chose for her. Abby was the spoiled little rich girl, and her father was dying, so he chose someone he thought could take care of her, and that someone wasn't 17-year-old Joe Carlyle. Joe was a little wild, and though Abby loved him, she didn't have the courage to stand up to her dad and fight for what she wanted. Eight years later, her marriage over, Abby returns to Marietta for a visit...and to hopefully put Joe in her past.
Joe has grown up and made a successful life for himself, but he has never forgotten Abby. When she proposes a weekend fling, Joe turns her down, instead opting to get to know the adult Abby.
A quick read and sweet story, it was fun to watch two grown ups see if their past was what they thought it was and could become the future. Returning to Marietta, it was great to see how these two connected to the town and its other residents, many of whom have been in other stories.
Joe has grown up and made a successful life for himself, but he has never forgotten Abby. When she proposes a weekend fling, Joe turns her down, instead opting to get to know the adult Abby.
A quick read and sweet story, it was fun to watch two grown ups see if their past was what they thought it was and could become the future. Returning to Marietta, it was great to see how these two connected to the town and its other residents, many of whom have been in other stories.
October 18, 2014
Firstly, I’ll start with the cover-it pictures the main characters perfectly and the story itself is a very sweet love story, with it’s ups and downs.
Abby Foster is a 18 year old girl, who has a wealthy lifestyle, and she is in love with Joe Carlyle, who is a 17 year old boy from a different background. Abby’s life changes, when her father gets sick and wants the best future as possible for her daughter, and therefore she has to marry a man he has chosen for her. Abby has doubts about marrying Blaine Watts, but being young and naive, she does get married. After 8 years she comes back to Marietta, where she use to live, but now everything is changed, her father is dead, she is not wealthy anymore and she is divorced. Everything is changed, for both of them, but there’s something that has not changed-their love for each other.
I really like the story, but I would have wanted to read a bit more about Abby and Joe instead of Rafe, who’s Joe’s youngest brother, who caused a lot of trouble. Some moments were actually quite funny, but I didn’t enjoy it as much as the main plot.
Abby Foster is a 18 year old girl, who has a wealthy lifestyle, and she is in love with Joe Carlyle, who is a 17 year old boy from a different background. Abby’s life changes, when her father gets sick and wants the best future as possible for her daughter, and therefore she has to marry a man he has chosen for her. Abby has doubts about marrying Blaine Watts, but being young and naive, she does get married. After 8 years she comes back to Marietta, where she use to live, but now everything is changed, her father is dead, she is not wealthy anymore and she is divorced. Everything is changed, for both of them, but there’s something that has not changed-their love for each other.
I really like the story, but I would have wanted to read a bit more about Abby and Joe instead of Rafe, who’s Joe’s youngest brother, who caused a lot of trouble. Some moments were actually quite funny, but I didn’t enjoy it as much as the main plot.
May 25, 2015
**I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
The Long Way Home was a quick, sweet, second chance romance. At eighteen, Abby and Joe were both brokenhearted when she married a man she didn't love to satisfy her dying father's wish that she be financially taken care of when he was gone. Now eight years later, after her divorce, she's back in Marietta, Montana to ask for Joe's forgiveness with a weekend fling.
I loved that after all the years apart, Joe and Abby still had great chemistry. Joe, afraid of being hurt again, immediately shuts down Abby's attempt to fix what happened with a quick romp. They instead spend the weekend talking and getting to know each other again. The awesome connection couldn't be denied and these two quickly realize that they don't want to be apart ever again!
Overall, great love story but really short and I don't feel there was enough character development. This was the first book I have read in this series but look forward to reading more about this small town.
The Long Way Home was a quick, sweet, second chance romance. At eighteen, Abby and Joe were both brokenhearted when she married a man she didn't love to satisfy her dying father's wish that she be financially taken care of when he was gone. Now eight years later, after her divorce, she's back in Marietta, Montana to ask for Joe's forgiveness with a weekend fling.
I loved that after all the years apart, Joe and Abby still had great chemistry. Joe, afraid of being hurt again, immediately shuts down Abby's attempt to fix what happened with a quick romp. They instead spend the weekend talking and getting to know each other again. The awesome connection couldn't be denied and these two quickly realize that they don't want to be apart ever again!
Overall, great love story but really short and I don't feel there was enough character development. This was the first book I have read in this series but look forward to reading more about this small town.
July 31, 2015
good story of love conquering the mistakes of past actions. After 8 yrs away Abby goes home for homecoming weekend & to see if there is even a spark left between herself & Joe the love of her life. She married someone else at the bidding of her father, so she would have someone to take care of her & keep her in her present lifestyle. What neither knew was the man she was marrying was looking forward to her inheritance which there was not much of. After yrs of ups & downs the man divorces Abby for greener pastures & she sets off to start life over again. Joe isn't very receptive on her arrival on the surface & refuses Abby's offer of a last weekend together. But homecoming weekend brings their feelings to the surface & creates opportunities to start over. Will they take those opportunities? Can they make a new life together? Definitely will be looking for more in this series. I am also enjoying all the different authors that have created books for this series.
November 4, 2014
The home referred to in the title of The Long Way Home is Marietta, Montana where so many of Tule Publishing stories have taken place. The fictitious town seems so very real as I have gotten to know so many of its residents. The Carlyle boys are all interesting men, none more so than Joe. He is the perfect man now but impulsive and hot headed as a teenager.
Abby now a grown woman, has never forgotten Joe, her first high school love. I admire how realistically she is able to see herself, her past actions and the need to stand on her own two feet in the present. Which brings me to my only complaint with this sweet, charming second chance story; she goes into another commitment without really standing on her own. I wished that the author had let them see each other for a while longer than just the weekend.
But did I like the story overall, you bet I did. I just wanted to say slow down, take your time.
NetGalley provided a copy.
Abby now a grown woman, has never forgotten Joe, her first high school love. I admire how realistically she is able to see herself, her past actions and the need to stand on her own two feet in the present. Which brings me to my only complaint with this sweet, charming second chance story; she goes into another commitment without really standing on her own. I wished that the author had let them see each other for a while longer than just the weekend.
But did I like the story overall, you bet I did. I just wanted to say slow down, take your time.
NetGalley provided a copy.
November 6, 2014
At seventeen or eighteen can anyone really say they know the future, or what they will want out of it forever? Some are lucky and some do, most however have no clue what life has in store for them, how to reach it or how to deal with it. In the Long Way Home we are first greeted by two teenagers who really have no idea what the future will bring and yet they chose their paths then eight years later they are reunited and their futures are still questionable. What will happen, no one really knows but as adults they know more and more.
This is another of the Marietta Homecoming series but can be read as a standalone novella. Ms. O’Brien uses her words carefully and we are given a wonderful story of loved redeemed quickly. Everything is well thought out and the reader is given a very visual picture of what is going on. If there is a complaint it’s only that we weren’t given more. Looking forward to the next of Ms. O’Brien’s works.
This is another of the Marietta Homecoming series but can be read as a standalone novella. Ms. O’Brien uses her words carefully and we are given a wonderful story of loved redeemed quickly. Everything is well thought out and the reader is given a very visual picture of what is going on. If there is a complaint it’s only that we weren’t given more. Looking forward to the next of Ms. O’Brien’s works.
October 3, 2014
Sometimes you just have to follow your heart even if it might be too late.
At Eighteen, Abby Foster could have any boy she wanted. She wanted Joe Carlyle, but she wanted to make her dad happy too. So, she married the rich guy Blaine Watts and moved far away. That was a her biggest mistake. She never could get Joe out of her mind.
Recently divorced, Abby comes back to Montana for a weekend to see Joe and find out if he still feels the same way.
Joe Carlyle has grown up and has a successful career breeding race horses. The problem is his business partner is one very pretty lady who Abby just might be a little jealous of when she meets her. Is it more then just business between them?
Will Abby and Joe just be able to pick up the pieces where they left off or has Joe moved on after eight years?
At Eighteen, Abby Foster could have any boy she wanted. She wanted Joe Carlyle, but she wanted to make her dad happy too. So, she married the rich guy Blaine Watts and moved far away. That was a her biggest mistake. She never could get Joe out of her mind.
Recently divorced, Abby comes back to Montana for a weekend to see Joe and find out if he still feels the same way.
Joe Carlyle has grown up and has a successful career breeding race horses. The problem is his business partner is one very pretty lady who Abby just might be a little jealous of when she meets her. Is it more then just business between them?
Will Abby and Joe just be able to pick up the pieces where they left off or has Joe moved on after eight years?
October 3, 2014
dreams, heartache and homecoming
This review is from: The Long Way Home (Montana Born Homecoming Book 4) (Kindle Edition)
It all starts with teenage dreams, heartache and ends with trying to be the good girl and marry the man her father has chosen. I really could relate to Abby. I think there are a lot of us out there that feel the pressure to do what a parent wants when what our heart desires is something else. I was so glad to see that Abby returned and was not able to let her dream of being with Joe end without giving it one more try.
This is a sweet, moving short story about finally being able to come home to the love you thought was lost.
I was given an ARC to read for an honest review.
This review is from: The Long Way Home (Montana Born Homecoming Book 4) (Kindle Edition)
It all starts with teenage dreams, heartache and ends with trying to be the good girl and marry the man her father has chosen. I really could relate to Abby. I think there are a lot of us out there that feel the pressure to do what a parent wants when what our heart desires is something else. I was so glad to see that Abby returned and was not able to let her dream of being with Joe end without giving it one more try.
This is a sweet, moving short story about finally being able to come home to the love you thought was lost.
I was given an ARC to read for an honest review.
December 8, 2014
Joe and Abby were high school sweethearts with a plan to get married. However, Abby's dad would not agree as he wanted her to marry Blaine. On the night before her wedding, Abby was going to tell her father that the wedding was off. Until she over heard him talking about how he felt Blaine would be able to provide for her. She couldn't tell him then and ended up marrying Blaine.
Eight years later, divorced Abby is back in Marietta and hoping she can make things right with Joe. One night Joe's little brother tells her how they all think she is a gold digger. Abby fears that she won't be able to make amends and decides she needs to leave. Will Joe forgive her for running away the first time or will she end up leaving again?
Eight years later, divorced Abby is back in Marietta and hoping she can make things right with Joe. One night Joe's little brother tells her how they all think she is a gold digger. Abby fears that she won't be able to make amends and decides she needs to leave. Will Joe forgive her for running away the first time or will she end up leaving again?
October 8, 2014
Note: Review copy supplied by the publisher through NetGalley. Honest thoughts follow.
Oh, my.
To pack so much heartache and laughter into one neat novella was pretty darn amazing. I felt for both Abby and Joe, victims of their own circumstances. Their history together provided the backstory I needed to connect with them. This was sweet, spiced with a healthy amount of sexual tension. Second chance love done right. I wish Rafe had had his own resolution here, but overall, this book satisfied.
I think O'Brien writes stories with substance very well. Classic Superromance material. I should check out her longer works.
Oh, my.
To pack so much heartache and laughter into one neat novella was pretty darn amazing. I felt for both Abby and Joe, victims of their own circumstances. Their history together provided the backstory I needed to connect with them. This was sweet, spiced with a healthy amount of sexual tension. Second chance love done right. I wish Rafe had had his own resolution here, but overall, this book satisfied.
I think O'Brien writes stories with substance very well. Classic Superromance material. I should check out her longer works.
October 8, 2014
I really wanted to like this book more than I did. It had all the pieces, but somehow none of the pop. I really liked the hero, Joe. Had no real problems with the heroine, Abby. We have young lovers torn apart, remorse, heartache. I just didn't feel their connection. I felt Abby's desire/love for Joe far more than I felt his for her. There just seemed to be something missing.
It was well enough written that I'd give the author another chance. This wasn't a total dud and it's the first book I've read by her. But if the next book I read by this author falls flat I probably won't continue trying.
It was well enough written that I'd give the author another chance. This wasn't a total dud and it's the first book I've read by her. But if the next book I read by this author falls flat I probably won't continue trying.
October 9, 2014
I really enjoyed The Long Way Home. Abby Foster was a spoiled little rich girl at eighteen, desperately in love with seventeen year old Joe Carlisle, but equally compelled to keep her father happy by marrying someone else. Joe, meanwhile, is devastated when Abby breaks his heart. Fast forward eight years and now divorced Abby is back in Marietta for three days asking Joe for a fling. I loved the way the chemistry between these two was portrayed through the sizzle one or the other would feel at the touch of a finger or the squeeze of a hand, and I loved watching them rediscover their love for each other.
October 10, 2014
Abby Foster was pressured into marrying the wrong man eight years ago, leaving behind her only love Joe Carlyle. She has returned home divorced and looking to claim the life she should have had with Joe. Can her forgive her? Can they reclaim the love they once had and have the life they dreamed of?
This is a sweet romantic read centered around the second chance at love and forgiveness. I enjoyed it and it's well written.
I was given a copy by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a sweet romantic read centered around the second chance at love and forgiveness. I enjoyed it and it's well written.
I was given a copy by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2014
Abby was the spoiled little rich girl. She loved the poor kid from the wrong side of town, Joe. When she turned eighteen she married the older, rich man her father chose for her and broke Joe's heart. Now, eight years later, she is back in Marietta, divorced, and headed to the next town over for a job interview and a fresh start. All she wants is the weekend with Joe to see if there is anything left between them. Can Joe risk another broken heart by letting Abby back into his heart? This is a story about second chances and looking at the past through matured eyes. Great quick read!
November 1, 2014
The Long Way Home by Kathleen O'Brien is book #4 in the Montana Born Homecoming series. This is a sweet, short, second chance at love book. Abby Foster returns to Marietta, Montana after being away for 8 years. When she left she broke Joe Carlyle's heart and left him devastated. You see Abby and Joe were in love at the time but Abby still married another man. Read this book to see how Abby and Joe reunite, you will not be disappointed. A good read!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher for an honest review.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher for an honest review.
October 2, 2014
I liked this young love story. All of us can remember back to our first love and how much it hurt when it was over. Some people moved on, some waited around and some never experienced the heartbreak because they choose love and got it right the first time. Abby and Joe were young and in love. Abby married another and left. Joe stayed put and moved on. Abby returns and then the question remains- what to do now?
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews