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Finding Hunter
In Book 2 of the Riverbend Series, Marcia Meara, author of Wake-Robin Ridge, A Boy Named Rabbit, and Harbinger, takes a look at the devastating effects of a family torn apart by a horrific tragedy, pitting brother against brother, and focusing on battling PTSD with the redemptive power of unwavering love and support. Before, I never thought about taking a life. Not once. Now, the thought fills my mind day and night, and I wonder how I’ll hide that terrible need, As an old car swings to the shoulder, And stops. ~ Traveling Man ~ Hunter Painter’s darkest fears have shaped his offbeat personality since he was a child, crippling him in ways invisible to those unable to see past his quiet exterior. In a sleepy Florida town known for its eccentric inhabitants, he’s always been a mystery to most. Only one person sees beyond Hunter’s quirky facade. Willow Greene, the new age herbalist who owns the local candle and potpourri shop, has secretly loved him since they were in high school. When, sixteen years later, she discovers Hunter has loved her just as long, Willow hopes her dreams are finally coming true. Willow soon learns that Hunter fears happiness at her side isn’t in the cards for him. With her natural optimism and courage, she almost convinces him he’s wrong—that they can really have that life together they both long for—but even Willow can’t stop what Hunter knows is coming. One by one, his worst nightmares become reality, culminating in an unthinkable tragedy, which devastates everyone it touches. Willow’s battle begins in earnest as Hunter is plunged into a bleak, guilt-ridden despair, threatening to destroy not only their love, but Hunter, himself. Finding Hunter is the story of a lost man’s desperate struggle to make his way home again, and one woman’s unshakeable faith in him and the power of their love.
431 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 30, 2015
2 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Marcia Meara
14 books58 followersMarcia Meara lives in central Florida, just north of Orlando, with her husband of over thirty years and four big cats.
When not writing or blogging, she spends her time gardening, and enjoying the surprising amount of wildlife that manages to make a home in her suburban yard. She enjoys nature. Really, really enjoys it. All of it! Well, almost all of it, anyway. From birds, to furry critters, to her very favorites, snakes. The exception would be spiders, which she truly loathes, convinced that anything with eight hairy legs is surely up to no good. She does not, however, kill spiders anymore, since she knows they have their place in the world. Besides, her husband now handles her Arachnid Catch and Release Program, and she's good with that.
Spiders aside, the one thing Marcia would like to tell each of her readers is that it's never too late to make your dreams come true. If, at the age of 69, she could write and publish a book (and thus fulfill 64 years of longing to do that very thing), you can make your own dreams a reality, too. Go for it! What have you got to lose?
CONTACT MARCIA HERE:
The Write Stuff: http://marciamearawrites.com/
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/marcia.meara...
Facebook Personal Page: https://www.facebook.com/marcia.meara
Twitter: @marciameara
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/marciameara/
BIBLIOGRAPHY OF MARCIA'S BOOKS:
Wake-Robin Ridge
A Boy Named Rabbit: Wake-Robin Ridge Book 2
Harbinger: Wake-Robin Ridge Book 3
Swamp Ghosts: A Riverbend Novel
Finding Hunter: Riverbend Book 2
That Darkest Place: Riverbend Book 3
The Emissary: A Riverbend Spinoff Novella
The Emissary 2: To Love Somebody
The Emissary 3: Love Hurts
The Emissary Trilogy
Summer Magic: Poems of Life & Love
When not writing or blogging, she spends her time gardening, and enjoying the surprising amount of wildlife that manages to make a home in her suburban yard. She enjoys nature. Really, really enjoys it. All of it! Well, almost all of it, anyway. From birds, to furry critters, to her very favorites, snakes. The exception would be spiders, which she truly loathes, convinced that anything with eight hairy legs is surely up to no good. She does not, however, kill spiders anymore, since she knows they have their place in the world. Besides, her husband now handles her Arachnid Catch and Release Program, and she's good with that.
Spiders aside, the one thing Marcia would like to tell each of her readers is that it's never too late to make your dreams come true. If, at the age of 69, she could write and publish a book (and thus fulfill 64 years of longing to do that very thing), you can make your own dreams a reality, too. Go for it! What have you got to lose?
CONTACT MARCIA HERE:
The Write Stuff: http://marciamearawrites.com/
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/marcia.meara...
Facebook Personal Page: https://www.facebook.com/marcia.meara
Twitter: @marciameara
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/marciameara/
BIBLIOGRAPHY OF MARCIA'S BOOKS:
Wake-Robin Ridge
A Boy Named Rabbit: Wake-Robin Ridge Book 2
Harbinger: Wake-Robin Ridge Book 3
Swamp Ghosts: A Riverbend Novel
Finding Hunter: Riverbend Book 2
That Darkest Place: Riverbend Book 3
The Emissary: A Riverbend Spinoff Novella
The Emissary 2: To Love Somebody
The Emissary 3: Love Hurts
The Emissary Trilogy
Summer Magic: Poems of Life & Love
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
September 6, 2019
Hunter Painter is the youngest of three brothers. Forrest and Jackson have always been more outgoing, a little rough-and-tumble, and clever with the ladies. By contrast, Hunter is reserved, a bit on shy side, a gentle soul whose feelings run deep. He has been in love with Willow Greene since high school, but far too inhibited to approach her. Years later, when a friend gives him a nudge and he finally does, he discovers Willow has harbored the same feelings for him just as long.
The bliss of discovery is short-lived, however, when their love is put to the test all too soon. Hunter’s mother suffers from dementia, potentially underscored by mental illness. Although Hunter recognizes the downward spiral and the increasing severity of her actions, both his father and his brothers turn a blind eye. When tragedy strikes, Hunter’s world shatters and he is left trying to balance a toxic mix of darkness, brokenness, and suffocating guilt. It doesn’t help both his brothers initially turn on him, too encumbered to admit their own shortcomings.
What follows is a tale of anguish, love, and redemption. Unable to cope, Hunter tries to shut out the world, but he is unable to break the ties that bind him to Willow. Even when they are separated, their hearts are constantly entwined. Willow’s strength is steel, the solace Hunter needs when he returns to her—even if only to say goodbye. Hunter’s healing—which encompasses the second half of the novel—doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a testament to the author’s ability to tug heartstrings that she parcels it out in a manner that leaves a lump in the throat.
Meara tackles heavy duty issues—dementia, mental illness, PTSD, family relations, recovery. But she balances the weightier moments with character growth, plenty of realism, and heart. One thing you can always count on in a Marcia Meara novel is heart. Hallmark could take lessons.
As always, the characters are outstanding, and Hunter and Willow will remain with me for a long time to come. In addition, I was thoroughly smitten by Forrest Painter’s story arc. Reading Finding Hunter is like taking a journey. As someone who loves character-driven fiction, it’s a journey I highly recommend others take.
The bliss of discovery is short-lived, however, when their love is put to the test all too soon. Hunter’s mother suffers from dementia, potentially underscored by mental illness. Although Hunter recognizes the downward spiral and the increasing severity of her actions, both his father and his brothers turn a blind eye. When tragedy strikes, Hunter’s world shatters and he is left trying to balance a toxic mix of darkness, brokenness, and suffocating guilt. It doesn’t help both his brothers initially turn on him, too encumbered to admit their own shortcomings.
What follows is a tale of anguish, love, and redemption. Unable to cope, Hunter tries to shut out the world, but he is unable to break the ties that bind him to Willow. Even when they are separated, their hearts are constantly entwined. Willow’s strength is steel, the solace Hunter needs when he returns to her—even if only to say goodbye. Hunter’s healing—which encompasses the second half of the novel—doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a testament to the author’s ability to tug heartstrings that she parcels it out in a manner that leaves a lump in the throat.
Meara tackles heavy duty issues—dementia, mental illness, PTSD, family relations, recovery. But she balances the weightier moments with character growth, plenty of realism, and heart. One thing you can always count on in a Marcia Meara novel is heart. Hallmark could take lessons.
As always, the characters are outstanding, and Hunter and Willow will remain with me for a long time to come. In addition, I was thoroughly smitten by Forrest Painter’s story arc. Reading Finding Hunter is like taking a journey. As someone who loves character-driven fiction, it’s a journey I highly recommend others take.
October 8, 2015
I'm a Marcia Meara fan, but I have to say I didn't enjoy this one as much as her prior books. This book is part of the Riverbend Series.The first book in the series had a level of suspense that totally captivated me. Ms. Meara takes a different spin with this book which through me off a bit, although still drew me into the lives of Hunter and Willow.
With the media focus on mental health, this story is very much current. Willow's capacity for love is a gift that she has given to Hunter who is a damaged soul who needs her love very much. Ms. Meara creates such great damaged souls...she captures their pain, their distress as well as giving them talent and depth that would draw another person to them. This story is about Hunter and Willow finding each other, losing each other and the difficult journey of becoming whole.
Ms. Meara's writing, character development and ability to spin a tale are still very evident in this book and she does a remarkable job. The change is that this is a slower moving tale that doesn't really include the suspense of some of her prior books. This book is about love and relationships and what you do to help heal the person you love.
We are also introduced to Hunter's brothers who show promise for future books.
With the media focus on mental health, this story is very much current. Willow's capacity for love is a gift that she has given to Hunter who is a damaged soul who needs her love very much. Ms. Meara creates such great damaged souls...she captures their pain, their distress as well as giving them talent and depth that would draw another person to them. This story is about Hunter and Willow finding each other, losing each other and the difficult journey of becoming whole.
Ms. Meara's writing, character development and ability to spin a tale are still very evident in this book and she does a remarkable job. The change is that this is a slower moving tale that doesn't really include the suspense of some of her prior books. This book is about love and relationships and what you do to help heal the person you love.
We are also introduced to Hunter's brothers who show promise for future books.
July 15, 2018
I read Marcia Meara’s first Riverbend novel a little while ago and loved it. It combines a romantic love story with an edge-of-your-seat tension as the protagonists find themselves sucked into the horrific world of a sadistic serial killer.
Finding Hunter, the second book, doesn’t feature a serial killer but, for me, this was a book that packed an even greater emotional punch and the tension was as great – if not greater.
Finding Hunter is more terrifying because the horror in the story could happen to any one of us. It concerns the way families frequently behave, not recognising or acknowledging problems and, when things do go wrong, lashing out without thought of the damage done or its far-reaching consequences. It’s often the most perceptive characters who are hurt hardest in this life and Hunter is sensitive to everything around him, trying to do the best he can for everyone and struggling with the weight of his burden.
We first meet Willow and Hunter in Book One and we know that they’ve each hidden their love for the other for years. The characters are wonderfully developed. They're as real as one's own family and you walk with Willow and Hunter every step of the way, wincing, fearing, mourning and rejoicing with them every step of the way, too. They are perfect for each other and the scenes where they are able to give free reign to their feelings are expertly written. These are people with genuine emotions and needs and the love scenes, whilst handled with a light touch, are beautiful, funny and very moving without being graphic.
When tragedy strikes, Hunter goes missing both literally and figuratively and there is a very real sense of fear and dread. Willow is a wonderful character. She’s strong, intuitive and honest and prepared to do what it takes to get Hunter back. I won’t say any more for fear of dropping spoilers but I will confess to unashamedly weeping over parts of this incredible book.
So, this isn’t a book about sinister murderers and derring-do. No, it’s a truly frightening book about the frailty of the human spirit and how we respond to it. This is for people who like a great, pacy read with characters that leap off the page and who drive the story as much as the tragic incidents do. We can all identify in some way with Hunter and Willow and that makes it all the more personal and terrifying.
Five of the most sparkly of stars from me!
April 5, 2022
I read and enjoyed the first book in the Riverbend series and was eager to see what happens next. Hunter is the youngest of three boys, and he’s the family caretaker. Living at home, he makes sure his mother is okay while his outgoing brothers go on with their lives. Gifted with a gentle heart, he finally finds the courage to ask Willow out, who he’s adored since high school. They immediately click, and it is obvious they should be together. I was drawn to the kindness of Hunter and the strength and goodness of Willow. Even with the happiness that they've found together, Hunter has concerns that might pull them apart. This story takes a journey into mental health. Although this is a love story, it’s also an insightful glimpse into dementia, PTSD, depression, family dynamics, hope, and healing. As soon as I finished “Finding Hunter” I started Riverbend #3. This is a heartfelt story that I can highly recommend.
July 12, 2017
Great story. Love this author.
October 31, 2019
After thoroughly enjoing book one in The Riverbend Series, I went on to read book 2, Finding Hunter. While there isn't a serial killer or any other type of outside threat to the happy couple in this story, there is most certainly a threat, and one all the more perfidious because it's an internal threat, and a triple whammy to boot: depression, lack of self esteem, and PTSD.
The author writes fantastic character-driven fiction, and this read brought tears at times because I got that involved. I particularly liked the poems that opened each chapter, and for a while told one of the character's stories in his absence.
As ever, this writer delivers strong characters, great fiction, and a compelling setting in Florida. I will be reading book 3 in this series just as soon as I can. Finding Hunter gets a resounding 5 stars from me.
***
NOTE ON RATINGS: I consider a 3-star rating a positive review. Picky about which books I give 5 stars to, I reserve this highest rating for the stories I find stunning and which moved me.
5 STARS: IT WAS AMAZING! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! — Highly Recommended.
4 STARS: I WOULD PULL AN ALL-NIGHTER — Go read this book.
3 STARS: IT WAS GOOD! — An okay read. Didn’t love it. Didn’t hate it.
2 STARS: I MAY HAVE LIKED A FEW THINGS —Lacking in some areas: writing, characterisation, and/or problematic plot lines.
1 STAR: NOT MY CUP OF TEA —Lots of issues with this book.
The author writes fantastic character-driven fiction, and this read brought tears at times because I got that involved. I particularly liked the poems that opened each chapter, and for a while told one of the character's stories in his absence.
As ever, this writer delivers strong characters, great fiction, and a compelling setting in Florida. I will be reading book 3 in this series just as soon as I can. Finding Hunter gets a resounding 5 stars from me.
***
NOTE ON RATINGS: I consider a 3-star rating a positive review. Picky about which books I give 5 stars to, I reserve this highest rating for the stories I find stunning and which moved me.
5 STARS: IT WAS AMAZING! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! — Highly Recommended.
4 STARS: I WOULD PULL AN ALL-NIGHTER — Go read this book.
3 STARS: IT WAS GOOD! — An okay read. Didn’t love it. Didn’t hate it.
2 STARS: I MAY HAVE LIKED A FEW THINGS —Lacking in some areas: writing, characterisation, and/or problematic plot lines.
1 STAR: NOT MY CUP OF TEA —Lots of issues with this book.
August 18, 2016
Four point Five Stars.
Finding Hunter is book #2 of The Riverbend series and is also a stand alone book, I would class it as a romantic mystery, whereas book #1 was definitely a romantic suspense.
In this book shy Hunter Painter plucks up the courage to phone Willow Greene, the only love in his life and a secret love he has been harbouring for many years. Willow too has been keeping secret her feelings for Hunter and when they agree to lunch their feelings for each other ignite. But Hunter is so afraid he rushes home.
Determined not to lose Hunter, Willow confronts him and they allow their love to flow. But Hunter is a complex man, with many deep layers of concerns. One of those is his parents, Hunter's stayed at home while his brothers left, to help look after Lizzie, who suffers out-bursts and probably a form of dementia, but she's never been diagnosed. Big Jack Hunter has always vowed he'd take care of Lizzie and denies there is anything seriously wrong with her.
When a serious family tragedy occurs, Hunter breaks down, then goes missing and Willow is left fighting her own heart-break. She never gives up her belief that Hunter will come back.
This is an emotional read, dealing with anxiety disorder, PTSD, separation disorder and more, I think it will touch a nerve with many readers who will know someone who has suffered even the mildest of panic attacks, that they may sympathise with Hunter. Maricia's love of animals and the Florida riverways and plant life shines through this book, with "Biscuit" being a particular favourite of mine.
Finding Hunter is book #2 of The Riverbend series and is also a stand alone book, I would class it as a romantic mystery, whereas book #1 was definitely a romantic suspense.
In this book shy Hunter Painter plucks up the courage to phone Willow Greene, the only love in his life and a secret love he has been harbouring for many years. Willow too has been keeping secret her feelings for Hunter and when they agree to lunch their feelings for each other ignite. But Hunter is so afraid he rushes home.
Determined not to lose Hunter, Willow confronts him and they allow their love to flow. But Hunter is a complex man, with many deep layers of concerns. One of those is his parents, Hunter's stayed at home while his brothers left, to help look after Lizzie, who suffers out-bursts and probably a form of dementia, but she's never been diagnosed. Big Jack Hunter has always vowed he'd take care of Lizzie and denies there is anything seriously wrong with her.
When a serious family tragedy occurs, Hunter breaks down, then goes missing and Willow is left fighting her own heart-break. She never gives up her belief that Hunter will come back.
This is an emotional read, dealing with anxiety disorder, PTSD, separation disorder and more, I think it will touch a nerve with many readers who will know someone who has suffered even the mildest of panic attacks, that they may sympathise with Hunter. Maricia's love of animals and the Florida riverways and plant life shines through this book, with "Biscuit" being a particular favourite of mine.
June 19, 2017
I was looking forward to this book because I enjoyed the first one in the series so much. And now I'm eager to read book three. Marcia Meara has found her groove in the complex-character/Florida-fiction niche.
I love character-driven fiction, and this is the epitome of a character-driven piece. Hunter Painter puts a smile on your face and a tear in your eye from the first page. His story arc had me an emotional wreck, so you can imagine what he and Willow went through. And Willow... so strong, so understanding, so amazing. She is a force to be reckoned with.
These characters and the supporting cast kept me on the edge of my seat. This book depicts the horrors of PTSD from not just the person plagued by it, but also from the POV of the family and friends who so often feel helpless and are relegated to watching their loved one suffer. Meara explored this condition thoroughly and without restraint. It was an eye-opening and heart-wrenching take on the topic.
As I said, I really enjoyed this novel and can't wait to read the next installment.
I love character-driven fiction, and this is the epitome of a character-driven piece. Hunter Painter puts a smile on your face and a tear in your eye from the first page. His story arc had me an emotional wreck, so you can imagine what he and Willow went through. And Willow... so strong, so understanding, so amazing. She is a force to be reckoned with.
These characters and the supporting cast kept me on the edge of my seat. This book depicts the horrors of PTSD from not just the person plagued by it, but also from the POV of the family and friends who so often feel helpless and are relegated to watching their loved one suffer. Meara explored this condition thoroughly and without restraint. It was an eye-opening and heart-wrenching take on the topic.
As I said, I really enjoyed this novel and can't wait to read the next installment.
October 12, 2019
After reading and thoroughly enjoying the first book of Marcia Meara’s Riverbend series, I was eager for this one.
Hunter Painter is the youngest of three brothers, much different than his siblings. Where they are bold, brash jocks, Hunter is quiet, reflective, and somewhat shy. He’s been in love with Willow Greene since high school, but always thought he wasn’t good enough for her.
When a friend encourages him to call her, Hunter discovers the feeling is mutual. All too soon, their happiness is put to the test with a tragedy strikes Hunter’s family. He blames himself and leaves Riverbend. Some, including his brother Forrest, believe he may have committed suicide. But Willow refuses to give up, and after months Hunter returns—a broken man.
I have to be honest—parts of this book weren’t what I expected. However, Meara does a fantastic job of tackling some genuine issues that face many people today—PTSD, depression, dysfunctional families. The suspense is there in the form of the mysterious “traveling man” who is bent on killing someone.
If you like character-driven fiction, you’ll love this one. I look forward to reading the third book of this series.
Hunter Painter is the youngest of three brothers, much different than his siblings. Where they are bold, brash jocks, Hunter is quiet, reflective, and somewhat shy. He’s been in love with Willow Greene since high school, but always thought he wasn’t good enough for her.
When a friend encourages him to call her, Hunter discovers the feeling is mutual. All too soon, their happiness is put to the test with a tragedy strikes Hunter’s family. He blames himself and leaves Riverbend. Some, including his brother Forrest, believe he may have committed suicide. But Willow refuses to give up, and after months Hunter returns—a broken man.
I have to be honest—parts of this book weren’t what I expected. However, Meara does a fantastic job of tackling some genuine issues that face many people today—PTSD, depression, dysfunctional families. The suspense is there in the form of the mysterious “traveling man” who is bent on killing someone.
If you like character-driven fiction, you’ll love this one. I look forward to reading the third book of this series.
October 23, 2019
Finding Hunter starts off as the perfect romance between Hunter and Willow, but the complexities of life can’t be held at bay for long. Tragedy strikes and mental health issues take center stage. Unable to cope, Hunter disappears, leaving heartbreak in his wake. For months Willow, though abandoned, holds out hope.
Most of the chapters start with a creepy thought by a character called the Traveling Man. This is a bit of a bait and switch because nothing terrible happens. Instead, this story’s strength lies in its detailed portrayal of persevering love, complicated mental health challenges, and the task of learning to embrace life once again.
The story is told primarily through Willow’s pov. She’s about the nicest person in the whole wide world, and I liked her despite her lack of faults. But Hunter is the character who stole my reader’s heart, and Meara does a nice job of not sugarcoating his struggle, his basic goodness, or the means to his recovery.
A well-written story for readers who don’t mind a slow pace in order to get the full flavor of the characters’ emotions and relationship, as well as the intricacies of Hunter’s climb toward recovery.
Most of the chapters start with a creepy thought by a character called the Traveling Man. This is a bit of a bait and switch because nothing terrible happens. Instead, this story’s strength lies in its detailed portrayal of persevering love, complicated mental health challenges, and the task of learning to embrace life once again.
The story is told primarily through Willow’s pov. She’s about the nicest person in the whole wide world, and I liked her despite her lack of faults. But Hunter is the character who stole my reader’s heart, and Meara does a nice job of not sugarcoating his struggle, his basic goodness, or the means to his recovery.
A well-written story for readers who don’t mind a slow pace in order to get the full flavor of the characters’ emotions and relationship, as well as the intricacies of Hunter’s climb toward recovery.
July 12, 2023
I absolutely love Hunter! He's such a pure soul, but he has no idea how special he truly is because he lives in a world of fear and pain. Luckily, he is loved unconditionally in a way most of us may never experience. This was a fantastic addition to this series.
The author does an incredible job of diving into anxiety and depression through Hunter's words and actions. Just as powerful is Willow's journey in struggling to go on without Hunter while being determined to keep hope alive. I loved how the author used poetry to tell one storyline until the two stories merged together.
I also enjoyed seeing characters from the first book of the series. The author seamlessly created new threads of storylines for other characters that will be visiting in the next book. The ending is a bit of a punch to the gut, but it makes me want to dive right into book three!
This was a wonderful story of loss, love, and resilience. If you enjoy stories that dare to dive into the struggles of life while also shining a light on the human spirit, then I highly recommend this book!
The author does an incredible job of diving into anxiety and depression through Hunter's words and actions. Just as powerful is Willow's journey in struggling to go on without Hunter while being determined to keep hope alive. I loved how the author used poetry to tell one storyline until the two stories merged together.
I also enjoyed seeing characters from the first book of the series. The author seamlessly created new threads of storylines for other characters that will be visiting in the next book. The ending is a bit of a punch to the gut, but it makes me want to dive right into book three!
This was a wonderful story of loss, love, and resilience. If you enjoy stories that dare to dive into the struggles of life while also shining a light on the human spirit, then I highly recommend this book!
June 8, 2017
This book defies genres. Not sure what to call it but it definitely held my interest while reading it. For a while afterward, I was still thinking about the characters--always the sign of a good story in my opinion.
Willow has loved Hunter since high school, and fifteen years later she discovers he has always secretly loved her as well. They finally get together and Willow is starting to realize just how dysfunctional Hunter's family is, when tragedy strikes.
I won't say more because don't want to spoil it. There was one minor issue for me, as a psychologist, but I can't talk about it without spoilers so... It was minor. Mostly the psychological aspects were very well portrayed.
Definitely a book I recommend!
Willow has loved Hunter since high school, and fifteen years later she discovers he has always secretly loved her as well. They finally get together and Willow is starting to realize just how dysfunctional Hunter's family is, when tragedy strikes.
I won't say more because don't want to spoil it. There was one minor issue for me, as a psychologist, but I can't talk about it without spoilers so... It was minor. Mostly the psychological aspects were very well portrayed.
Definitely a book I recommend!
July 4, 2018
A very different novel from the first Riverbend book and it would work fine as a stand alone novel, but those of us who enjoyed the first were eager to see if it was Willow's turn to find true love, only to fear she would lose the love of her life so soon after finding him. Anyone who has had strange experiences when meeting the boyfriend's family for the first time will sympathise with Willow and admire the way she stands by her man. But how can she stand by her man when he disappears? Hunter is a complex man with a difficult life, can love be strong enough to save him? I am looking forward to reading Book Three and following the next part of Willow and Hunter's life together.
December 21, 2022
In this second book of the Riverbend Series, Meara draws the reader into the heart of a dysfunctional family. We experience the horror and shame felt by families torn apart by secrets and mental instability, and it is devastating. Meara’s writing is top notch and the realism is palpable. I couldn’t put the book down until I finished it. Bravo!
January 10, 2018
Another good book from Marcia. Deals with mental illness and the heartbreak and problems friends and family have dealing with it. Rang some bells.
October 2, 2020
I read Swamp Ghosts a year ago and enjoyed. This follow up book in the series was good. Easy read, very light. Just what I was looking for! Thinking I will starting Book 3 in the series tonight.
March 27, 2016
4.5*
Following on from Swamp Ghosts, this story brings to life the lives of Willow Greene, close friend of Maggie Devlin, now Maggie Wolfe, and Hunter Painter, best friend of Maggie’s husband, Gunn.
Ever since he could remember Hunter has felt different, separate from his peers. He’s quiet and introspective, enjoying reading and writing, not at all like his older brothers, Forrest and Jackson, who have always been outgoing, taking whatever life offers. Hunter’s sensitivity to people and his surroundings have impacted on his life and psyche steadily over the years.
Willow has been in love with Hunter ever since high school. When she has a surprise phone call from Hunter the day after Maggie and Gunn’s wedding party, she invites him over. Realising, after all these years, they feel the same for each other Willow and Hunter spend as much time together as possible. But Hunter believes happiness is not meant for him. His lot was to look out for his parents since his dad was turning a blind eye to a serious problem, which was obvious to Hunter. His overriding fear that he would take after his mother meant, to his mind, he could never have a lasting relationship.
The insecurities and secret dread Hunter has lived with all his life prove too much for him to cope with as events spiral, his worst fears culminating in a terrible tragedy which shatters him and shocks everyone close to him. Hunter is lost in a desolation and pain so deep it overtakes him totally.
This story has a completely different atmosphere to Swamp Ghosts, in that it’s not as suspenseful or tense in a thriller kind of way. Rather, this focuses quite a bit on mental health issues and how, if left unrecognised, ignored or untreated, can cause untold damage. It’s also about the struggle to find a way back from hopelessness and despair. Willow and Hunter both have a battle on their hands.
In addition, the emphasis is also on relationships and family. And the power of love. Marcia Meara represents all of this extremely well from the perspective of the well defined and sympathetic characters. There’s an impressive depth and interpretation in the vivid portrayals which will stay with me for a while, I think.
The short passages at the start of the chapters are intriguing and add a sense of anticipation, wanting to know who the travelling man is and his role in the story. It makes sense when all is revealed, and it was a surprise.
Following on from Swamp Ghosts, this story brings to life the lives of Willow Greene, close friend of Maggie Devlin, now Maggie Wolfe, and Hunter Painter, best friend of Maggie’s husband, Gunn.
Ever since he could remember Hunter has felt different, separate from his peers. He’s quiet and introspective, enjoying reading and writing, not at all like his older brothers, Forrest and Jackson, who have always been outgoing, taking whatever life offers. Hunter’s sensitivity to people and his surroundings have impacted on his life and psyche steadily over the years.
Willow has been in love with Hunter ever since high school. When she has a surprise phone call from Hunter the day after Maggie and Gunn’s wedding party, she invites him over. Realising, after all these years, they feel the same for each other Willow and Hunter spend as much time together as possible. But Hunter believes happiness is not meant for him. His lot was to look out for his parents since his dad was turning a blind eye to a serious problem, which was obvious to Hunter. His overriding fear that he would take after his mother meant, to his mind, he could never have a lasting relationship.
The insecurities and secret dread Hunter has lived with all his life prove too much for him to cope with as events spiral, his worst fears culminating in a terrible tragedy which shatters him and shocks everyone close to him. Hunter is lost in a desolation and pain so deep it overtakes him totally.
This story has a completely different atmosphere to Swamp Ghosts, in that it’s not as suspenseful or tense in a thriller kind of way. Rather, this focuses quite a bit on mental health issues and how, if left unrecognised, ignored or untreated, can cause untold damage. It’s also about the struggle to find a way back from hopelessness and despair. Willow and Hunter both have a battle on their hands.
In addition, the emphasis is also on relationships and family. And the power of love. Marcia Meara represents all of this extremely well from the perspective of the well defined and sympathetic characters. There’s an impressive depth and interpretation in the vivid portrayals which will stay with me for a while, I think.
The short passages at the start of the chapters are intriguing and add a sense of anticipation, wanting to know who the travelling man is and his role in the story. It makes sense when all is revealed, and it was a surprise.
September 23, 2015
The characters who populate the small town of River Bend, come to life in this story about the power of love from the inspired imagination of talented author, Marcia Meara. A truly wonderful novel, this story features two minor characters from Ms. Meara’s previous novel, Swamp Ghosts. Hunter, an introverted, hapless, but troubled writer who carries a load of family problems on his shoulders, and has no idea of the talent he possesses. And Willow, the selfless, caring extrovert, who adores him, and tries her best to point out how valuable his life is.
This story is rather unusual, as it’s the reverse of the standard romance novel. It begins with the romance, expertly written by the way, and works up to the events that threaten to end it forever.
The short poems at the beginning of each chapter add a bit of suspense to the story, as you can’t help but wonder who “The Traveler” is. But everything is revealed in the end. The story pulled me in from the very first page, and kept me reading well into the night. I highly recommend this novel.
This story is rather unusual, as it’s the reverse of the standard romance novel. It begins with the romance, expertly written by the way, and works up to the events that threaten to end it forever.
The short poems at the beginning of each chapter add a bit of suspense to the story, as you can’t help but wonder who “The Traveler” is. But everything is revealed in the end. The story pulled me in from the very first page, and kept me reading well into the night. I highly recommend this novel.
May 3, 2017
novel
418 pages
This story follows the likable Willow and Hunter from Swamp Ghosts. Ordinary, likable
people, facing life's stresses and obstacles, holding on to each other with love.
418 pages
This story follows the likable Willow and Hunter from Swamp Ghosts. Ordinary, likable
people, facing life's stresses and obstacles, holding on to each other with love.
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