No Place too Far

By the Sea #2

by Kay Bratt

Maggie Dalton was forced to uproot her entire life to protect herself and her son. Just when she thinks she’s outrun her past, she’ll have to face her fears in this emotional and suspenseful novel by the bestselling author of Wish Me Home.

After a year on the move, single mom Maggie Dalton has found a safe haven with her son in Maui. It’s the perfect spot to settle down now that her relentless stalker is finally behind bars. Maggie finds a new job and a new life thanks to some help from her best friend, Quinn, who urged her to come start over in paradise. But when signals suggest her stalker is back, Maggie realizes Maui might not be the safe oasis she thought.

Quinn knows all about facing the past. Tenuously reunited with her biological family after thirty years, she’s still coming to terms with her childhood—along with guilt, secrets, and mysteries yet to be resolved. And just as she’s starting to figure out where she fits in with her family, a name from the past threatens them all.

With that fear comes a choice for both women: abandon the lives they’ve been building on Maui, or find the courage to finally stop running and fight for the happiness they deserve.

Genres: Fiction, Romance, Chick Lit, Audiobook, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Womens Fiction

313 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2020

About the author

Writer, Rescuer, Wanderer


Kay Bratt is the powerhouse author behind 40 internationally bestselling books that span genres from mystery and women’s fiction to memoir and historical fiction. Her books are renowned for delivering an emotional wallop wrapped in gripping storylines. Her Hart's Ridge small-town mystery series earned her the coveted title of Amazon All Star Author and continues to be one of her most successful projects out of her more than two million books sold around the world.


Kay's literary works have sparked lively book club discussions wide-reaching, with her works translated into multiple languages, including German, Korean, Chinese, Hungarian, Czech, and Estonian. 


Beyond her writing, Kay passionately dedicates herself to rescue missions, championing animal welfare as the former Director of Advocacy for Yorkie Rescue of the Carolinas. She considers herself a lifelong advocate for children, having volunteered extensively in a Chinese orphanage and supported nonprofit organizations like An Orphan's Wish (AOW), Pearl River Outreach, and Love Without Boundaries.

In the USA, Kay served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children in Georgia, as well as spearheaded numerous outreach programs for underprivileged kids in South Carolina. Most recently Kay spent a year volunteering as a Hospice volunteer.


As a wanderlust-driven soul, Kay has called nearly three dozen different homes on two continents her own. Her globetrotting adventures have taken her to captivating destinations across Mexico, Thailand, Malaysia, China, the Philippines, Central America, the Bahamas, and Australia. Today, she and her soulmate of more than 30 years find their sanctuary in St. Augustine, Florida.


Described as southern, spicy, and a touch sassy, Kay loves to share her life's antics with the Bratt Pack on social media. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to join the fun and buckle up for the ride of a lifetime. Explore her popular catalog of published works at Kay Bratt Dot-Com and never miss a new release (or her latest Bratt Pack drama) by signing up for her monthly email newsletter. 
For more information, visit www.kaybratt.com.


Reviews

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review coming soon.

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

No Place Too Far takes up right where True To Me, the first of the A By the Sea series, ends. Both of these stories are great reads and I highly recommend reading them in order. In True To Me, Quinn Maguire heads to Hawaii to find her dad after her mom dies only to find a whole family that she knew nothing about nor how she was separated from them. Now she is there running a small inn in Maui and when her friend Maggie Dalton and her small son need a place to land, she encourages Maggie to go there from the mainland. Maggie has had a stalker and he is in prison. Or is he? She is starting over, working as a veterinary tech and struggling to make ends meet when strange things start happening. Quinn is trying to get her life together and make new relationships with a family she never knew as well as develop a relationship with a new boyfriend. Both of the friends encounter trials to work through in this story filled with anguish and stress and both have to realize that one can be independent and still rely on others for help. Maggie makes some new friends and has an unexpected and unwanted reunion. This was a nail biter at times but also with heart warming results that bring a smile and "sigh" moments. I am looking forward to book three and wondering whose story(ies) will be next.
I received a complimentary ARC from Lake Union Publishing through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
Contains language that might offend.

[Christine Nolfi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the By the Sea series, No Place Too Far returns the reader to Maui where Maggie Dalton is searching for a safe haven. By turns suspenseful, poignant, and ultimately heartwarming the story celebrates the bonds of family and true friendship. A page-turner you won’t want to put down. Highly recommended.

[Bambi Rathman · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The gift of "ohana"-the Hawaiian word symbolizing family...."

Family is everything to the people of Hawaii. Love, devotion, trust, and dependability. All these things make a family that is bonded together no matter what. The definition of family can be different for everyone. In "No Place too Far", Kay Bratt continutes the story from the first book in the series, "True to Me" of how Quinn has found her family in Maui after more than 30 years of being separated. But the past threatens the future. Part of the past is Quinn's best friend, Maggie, who's come to Maui with her young son, Charlie. As soon as I opened this book up, I felt like I was right back with old friends and family. Ms. Bratt has a story telling gift to create stories that pull at your heart. Ones that have a message and meaning to them. I know with a Kay Bratt novel, I'm going on an emotional adventure with the characters to places that are as vividly detailed as if I were there myself. She has such a gift of bringing the reader on an emotional journey and adventure with her characters.

Quinn's past is one she's trying to keep secret in order to protect someone in her family. Keeping secrets is all good until they aren't secret anymore. Now she's in a dilemma of losing what took her so long to find again. Will ohana be enough to overcome the challenges that threaten to ruin her place with them? Will her "honu" be there to protect her through as it was before?

Maggie has a past, too. One that has haunted her and caused her to try to run from it and disappear. One that she will do anything to keep her son, Charlie, safe from as well as herself. But the past is in danger of catching up to them and shattering any sense of peace and security she's worked so hard to find. "She wanted to be strong. Competent. Self-sufficient." Who will be there for her as she faces the worst?

This is a story about family...related and unrelated...but bonded and connected by love. This is a story about hardships, struggles, fears, guilt, secrets, and uncertainty. But it's also about trust, determination, friendships that are more like family, traditions, and loyalty. Ms. Bratt weaves in drama, suspense, and heart wrenching side characters with stories that bring it all together in an unputdownable read. She throws in some mystery to add to the mix and kept me turning the pages.

Not only do I become invested in the characters but the setting in this series is like a character itself by how brilliantly Ms. Bratt creates the scenes in word pictures I could visualize in my mind. I was again taken on a philosophical and cultural tour of a place I have never been but totally feel like I learned so much about it through the characters and their experiences in Maui and the surrounding areas. It's a virtual visit that had me walking in the rainforest, hearing the waterfalls, smelling the flora, and seeing the lushness as if I were there.

Then there's Woodrow...He stole my heart. The true definition of the love of a dog for his owner. Maggie's quiet shaggy service dog. Kay Bratt's ability to tap into the devotion of a dog and put into words that faithfulness is truly from her love of dogs. I knew that feeling in my heart with each passage Woodrow was written in. "Woodrow looked up. His soulful brown eyes locked on Maggie's, instantly calming her. He had that way about him." The subject of why Maggie needed a service dog touched close to home when I read the "From the Author" passages at the end of the book. I am very grateful for her thoughts and candor. Her heart to help others.

Kay Bratt writes stories from her heart. I become a part of them as I'm reading them. No Place Too Far is no exception. I am very grateful for the opportunity of reading this novel. She brings it every time with her heart and emotions that pour out on the pages. I will wait with anticipation for the next book in the series to see which character's stories Ms. Bratt brings to us By The Sea...there's a hint at the end in those notes! I want to thank Netgalley and especially Kay Bratt for the honor and privilege of reading this continuation of a great series. I loved it! All opinions and thoughts in this review are my heartfelt own. Maika'i nui loa.... (very, very good) five tropical stars!

[Teresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first time reading a book by this author, and while I found her writing to be proficient and her characters to be likable for the most part, I had a hard time getting into and finishing this book. The problem is that the book is what is probably labeled a “cozy romance,” and that is just not my type of book. I didn’t feel a strong connection to any of the characters and couldn’t invest in their issues. I especially had a problem with Maggie, who is being stalked, but instead of asking for help from her big brothers, she uproots her young son and relocates to Hawaii. This situation does not seem realistic to me. This book is the second in a series, but I had no problem following what was happening and understanding who all the characters were. I’m sure this book has a substantial audience, and as I mentioned, the writing was good. As such, I gave it three stars. Thank you to Net a Galley and the publisher for the opportunity to read it.

[Teresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first time reading a book by this author, and while I found her writing to be proficient and her characters to be likable for the most part, I had a hard time getting into and finishing this book. The problem is that the book is what is probably labeled a “cozy romance,” and that is just not my type of book. I didn’t feel a strong connection to any of the characters and couldn’t invest in their issues. I especially had a problem with Maggie, who is being stalked, but instead of asking for help from her big brothers, she uproots her young son and relocates to Hawaii. This situation does not seem realistic to me. This book is the second in a series, but I had no problem following what was happening and understanding who all the characters were. I’m sure this book has a substantial audience, and as I mentioned, the writing was good. As such, I gave it three stars. Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the opportunity to read it.

[Bette Crosby · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful story of a woman uncovering her family's secrets and finding herself. I loved the insightful descriptions of local life in Maui. I will be recommending this one to friends.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful! Second in a remarkable three book series!

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maggie has been on the run for a year and finally decides to settle down in Maui near her best friend Quinn. It's a perfect spot for Maggie and her son Charlie and they are getting settled in to their new lives. Maggie has a new job as a vet tech and Charlie really enjoys being close to the ocean and Quinn's hotel. She's finally able to start relaxing knowing that the man who stalked her for years is in prison. Or is he? When she starts receiving hints that he may be looking for her again, she has to call on her inner strength, her love for her son and her friends to help protect her.

We also learn more about Quinn's life from Book 1 and get more detail about her real family as she tries to protect them from someone who wants to tell the story of her childhood. Both friends have to make difficult decisions that will change their lives but their friendship helps guide them.

The setting for this series is beautiful. I've never been to Hawaii but these books take me on a mental vacation to the islands. There is also a lot of information about the history and culture of the Hawaiian people that was very interesting.

This is a book full of suspense and fear, friendship and love. I love the friendship between the two main characters that kept getting stronger no matter what adversity was facing them. I hope that there is another book in the series - I'm not ready to say goodbye to Quinn and Maggie or to the beautiful island of Maui.

Thanks to the author for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own

[Margaret Yelton · Rating 5 out of 5]

No Place Too Far is the second book in the By the Sea series, and although it brings in new characters it is also a continutation of Quinn's story. This is another amazing book by Kay Bratt, and had me turning the pages until the very end. It is easy to relate to the characters in the book, and I would most certainly recommend this book to my friends.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the By The Sea series. I absolutely loved the first one, True to Me. This one continues the story of Quinn and gives us more of Maggie’s story. I loved learning more about both these characters. I did get aggravated with both of them at certain points, particularly Maggie, but I did understand why they were making the choices they were making at the time. They both, again more Maggie, have issues from their pasts that cause them to make these choices. They both make peace with these issues by the end of this book so it will be interesting to see where the story goes in the third book. I, for one, can’t wait to find out!

[angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actual rating: 4.5🌟

This was a very engaging read. I don't usually read women's fiction as I feel like they always tend to be emotional and heavy and at the moment, I wanted a light, fluffy read. So I took a peek on this book but actually ended up reading the whole thing.😅

This book is set on Maui, a beautiful place I've never been too but was able to be described vividly by the author. I'm very much interested with the culture and history of the place. This has a small town feel to it where everyone knows everyone.

This book has two plotlines on it, we have Quinn and her best friend Maggie. At first I was confused because I feel like both plotlines has the potential to be separated and stand on their own. In time I accepted that Quinn and Maggie's life are intertwined and very much connected.

This book has family dynamics, friendship and mystery and suspense theme on it.

While reading this, I feel like I know these characters, that I'm a part of their community. Every character has their own unique thing going on in their lives and I'm very much invested on them.

I love the characters and I love the plot.❤

One thing I was shocked at is when I read the author's note, I realized this was actually part of a series.😲 I think this was the second book on the series. I was so shocked because it wasn't indicated on its Goodreads page.😢

Anyways, I still enjoyed this one.👍❤

***Thanks for netgalley, the publisher and author for making this available for review.***

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing Follow-up. I wrote last year of the first book in this series that Bratt could spend the rest of her career in this world, and that I would not be disappointed. Here, she comes back to the world ostensibly to give best friend Maggie her story... that Quinn plays an even larger part in than Maggie played in Quinn's own story (where Maggie was present enough to be the obvious target of a direct sequel, but otherwise truly a secondary character). Bratt does a solid job of juggling both ladies, it just seems at times here that too much is being condensed into one book. To me, the tale here could have been told over three, maybe four, books rather than one and been more on par with the overall pacing and impact of True To Me. Going into specifics might get a bit too much into spoiler territory, so I'll simply say that to me, the division is this: Quinn gets a dedicated sequel. Maggie's story here gets its own dedicated book where Quinn becomes more of a secondary character rather than the co-lead she is here, and Maggie's own story is then broken up into effectively the first and second halves of the story here.

I know, I know. I've complained in other reviews about books being cut in half in almost blatantly obvious cash grabs, but I don't think Bratt would have done that in the above scenario. I think more time in each of these situations would have brought out much more of the depth of emotion that True To Me had, vs the constant "swinging for the fences" here.

But do not get me wrong: This is still truly an excellent book, one I am very proud to have read, and again, I want to come back to this world many, many more times. This is just me expressing my quibbles over pacing of a truly excellent book that to my mind *just* missed the "I can't stop crying and my mind is blown" level of amazement that True To Me brought. Truly a great book, and very much recommended.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give this book more than five stars, then I would! This was romance, mystery, cultural lessons about Hawaii and family relationships all rolled into one very well-written and heart-tugging book. Kay Bratt obviously pours her heart and soul into her books for her readers and it is so appreciated by this reader! There are actually at least two storylines going on in this novel, the first about Quinn and her familial dilemma and the second one about Maggie and her stalker that she has escaped and is finally feeling a little bit of safety. There is also the minor story about David and Julianne, a story that just pulled at all of my heartstrings. My favorite character was Woodrow. Yes, Woodrow is a dog, but he is one smart and intuitive service animal who knows just what to do for Maggie and when. Of course, I also liked the hunky men in the story, including Liam and Joe. I especially enjoyed Joe’s humor and acceptance of life’s changes. Finally, I pick Juniper as my favorite human character because she is so laughably quirky and a really good friend for Maggie, not to mention surprisingly intelligent. Bratt has written a book that will long stay in my memory banks as a book to read when I need to be reminded what forgiveness and love look like. Fans of contemporary fiction, domestic drama and mystery will want to pick up this book and enjoy it.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

[Theresa Marko · Rating 2 out of 5]

Eh it was ok

I really enjoyed the first book. So much so that I saved the date for the release of the 2nd. Halfway through the book, I was shaking my head wondering if the 1st book wasn’t as good as I’d remembered. I’m disappointed. Guess the sequel is never as good as the original.

[Michele Rodriguez · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m definitely in the minority with this review. It was a good story but it wasn’t a wow for me

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this book. The second in the By The Sea series set in beautiful Maui. The first book was great and this one is even better.

The characters will get in your heart and make you feel what they feel. They have so many ups and downs. Family is what it’s all about in the end though. Finding safety and staying close to those you love. Being there for each other through everything. From the sunny beautiful descriptions to the people you will love to get close too. This book is so good.

Maggie and Quinn are best friends and this is the continuation of what is happening with them. Maggie is trying to find her place. A safe place away from the things that haunt her. The things that she’s so afraid of. But what will she do when that past comes to Hawaii? Will she be able to get through it? She knows Quinn is always there and has her back. She’s not only afraid for herself and her family but for her son. Quinn has some deep secrets of her own though and is trying to protect someone. Between her and Maggie this book will keep you wondering how things will turn out. Will things work out for them both or will one fall short? Let’s not forget Woodrow, Maggie’s service dog. He’s the best. He will definitely steal your heart. Also Charlie, Maggie’s son. He’s a mess for sure. Always a big entertainment for others, especially Quinn. There is a big family in this story. Both related by blood and by the heart. Sometimes the heart is stronger than blood. But not always.

This book will pull you in and take you places. It won’t let go until the very last word then you will want more. This book has many emotions at play. From a few laughs to some intense fears. From meeting some pretty cool animals to a veterinarian who loves practical jokes. Will Maggie and Quinn make it through this storm? Will everything turn out ok? This is a very well written book that definitely makes you feel like you are right there at every turn. You will have a trip to Hawaii that you won’t be forgetting for a while. The beauty is captured in this wonderful book. All the descriptions make you feel like you are right there. On the beach. Under the waterfalls. In the lobby of Quinn’s Inn. It’s a beautiful story and I can’t wait for the next one.

Thank you #NetGalley, #LakeUnionPublishing, #KayBratt for this ARC. These are my own words and do not truly do this book justice.

A huge 5/5 stars and a high recommendation.. Enjoy your trip to Maui, Hawaii!

[Lori Boyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars for this anticipated second book in the By The Sea series. This book picks up where True To Me leaves off, but can totally stand alone on its own. I wavered between 4.5 and 5 stars, ultimately going with the 5 because I couldn’t get this story out of my head and am eagerly anticipating the next book!

This story follows Maggie, a young single mom to a adorable 4 yo, who escapes to Maui looking for a safe place to live and hide. Her bff, Quinn, has just opened an upscale small hotel on the less traveled side of Maui, and had encouraged Maggie to come. Maggie, is scared, lovable, coming out of her shell, mature and tackle her problem head on. Stalker... just the word alone takes fear to a new level. Ms. Bratt tackles this subject with brutal honesty and from a place familiar to her and many. Quinn, is more of a side story in this book, but no less important, dealing with her own drama and making hard decisions to protect her family, maybe at her expense. Secondary characters are wonderful, well written and come to life. They add so much to this story.

As in the first book, we are treated to the wonderful stories of the Hawaiian culture and folklore. I love how Bratt weaves this in and out of the book. I can’t wait for the next book to see happens next on this beautiful island to this special family.

Thanks to Ms Bratt, LakeUnion Publishimg and NetGallet for this ARC. Opinion is mine alone.

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't realize this book is part of a series, although it was ok to read this book without having read the first book I think it would be best to read the other book before this one.

Maggie is on the run from her recent past, she thinks she's found a safe place for her and her son on Maui. Maggie finds a new job as a vet tech with the help of her best friend's boyfriend. Her best friend, Quinn, is also the one who convinced her to come to Maui. Quinn has to deal with her own issue on Maui where she just last year found her biological family. After 30 years of being separated from them, with a very tragic story to tell, she has yet to find how she fits in. Maggie and Quinn mostly rely on and support each other, but both women are runners. At the sign of trouble, they much rather pack up and run than stick around and figure it out. They think they are doing to protect the ones they love but they aren't giving themselves a chance to love and be happy. When their pasts catch up with them it's time to face the music and see if the women really have grown stronger over time, or if they will still run.

I liked the story and the bit of tension that is in this book. Maggie suffers from anxiety and I get how this can influence everything you do, but I don't really like how the anxiety was used in this book. There is this thing that happens in this book that almost had me put it down and it involves Maggie's anxiety and her ex, I don't want to spoil anything but this really got on my nerves. Quinn's story is remarkable and I don't think there is enough attention to her and her story in this book, especially the resolution to her story is just a bit much for my liking. I do like the picture painted by the author of Maui, which makes me want to visit the island as soon as I can. Overal the story was a comfortable read and the Maui backdrop helps it along rather nicely.

*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*

[Carol Deegan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good book I had a hard time putting it down. The second book in the By the Sea series, it continues the stories of the two women and their lives. It occasionally brought tears to my eyes, and there were a few laugh-out-loud moments as well. Ms Bratt does an excellent job of describing the characters, as well as the setting in Hawaii. You can’t help but like the characters and wish them the best. This can be a stand alone book, but it would probably be better to read the first book in the series, True To Me, before this book to get a better background. I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book by author Kay Bratt in her By The Sea series. This book follows Maggie Dalton and her son as she tries to restart her life in safety on Maui. Maggies's life has been disrupted by a stalker whom Maggie thinks is safely imprisoned. She has made the move to Maui to try and find peace again in her life with the help of her friend Quinn. The book also continues the storyline of Quinn, her new found family, and the inn that she hopes to open. Both Maggie's life and Quinn"s lives are threatened in very different ways, with twists and turns keeping the reader guessing on how they will resolve. The characters are well developed and the storylines intriguing.. However;I feel that in order to fully enjoy this book, the series should be read in order. This book is the perfect summer beach read

I received an ARC of this book fromNetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and Kay Bratt with no obligation to review it. This is my honest review

[Jamie Rutland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book. I read the first in the series, "True to Me" and this book picks up where that one left off. The description of the setting (Maui) is so descriptive that you feel as though you have visited there when you are done reading the book.

Maggie leads us through all the ins and outs of the family while she is searching for something she longs to find. I highly recommend this book and the Author, Kay Bratt. Wonderful writing!!

[Karen Wahl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won the Kindle story of No Place Too Far from Goodreads Giveaways. This is the second story in the By the Sea series. It was another great story by Kay Bratt and I loved “visiting” Maui once again. I loved the authors depiction of the Hawaiian culture and language. Her development of all the characters was done well and I really enjoyed four year old Charlie!! Great book and I’m looking forward to the next one in the series.

[Starla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for my honest review. This is the second book in series A By the Sea Novel. I couldn’t get enough. Kay Bratt always amazes me with her books! There is not one of her books I didn’t like!

[Barbara Waloven · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderfully written page turner. It is full of characters that anyone would love to have as real life friends and plot lines that keep you reading long after bedtime. All of this on the majestic island of Maui, which has a personality of its own. Great summer read.

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review

The second book in this series was wonderful. I have really enjoyed reading the first two books. Now I am going to finish the series and get started on the third book. These are wonderful stories to read. I will make it the stars.

[Patti Herring]

True Love

This story had many twists and turns. I would highly recommend it if you're a romantic person. Hated to put it down!!

[Cherihy808 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full five ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for this one! I loved the first book True To Me and I loved this one just as much! I was so happy to read more about Quinn and Liam and how their love story grew. I was glad that the author refreshed my memory on the story of Quinn because there were a few details I had forgotten. Maggie, Quinn’s best friend, was a character that really grew on me. Fortunately I’ve never had to deal with a stalker so I can only imagine how horrible and scary it would be. The author did a wonderful job writing it into the storyline. I am so excited to see where Book 3 will take us. After the scary ordeal Maggie faced on the island with her stalker, will she stay in Maui or will she leave? And how will Quinn and Liam’s story continue? I can’t wait to find out! By far my favorite part of this book is that it’s set in Maui - my favorite place on Earth. I’ve been there 4x and was supposed to be there this past July but had to cancel due to the pandemic. Thank you Kay Bratt for the perfect descriptions of Maui and helping me escape in my mind and imagine that I was there. I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves an emotional and suspenseful drama.

Thank you to the author, Net Galley and Lake Union Publishing for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t realize No Place Too Far was the second book in a series when I chose to read it, but I felt that the author provided more than enough information to understand what had gone on before for one of the main characters in this book, Quinn. Quinn’s story continues in No Place Too Far; however, Maggie Dalton, Quinn’s longtime friend, is the focus of the main story. I would probably categorize this novel as “romantic suspense”.

Maggie is in Maui with her young son to rebuild her life after being the victim of a stalker. She is separated from her son’s father, Colby, but the author really didn’t make clear the WHY of this separation. Perhaps it’s made clear in the first book in this series, True To Me. This did not markedly dampen my enjoyment of the book, but it was a bit vague for me, which made subsequent occurrences less impactful than they might have been.

That being said, this is an exciting book that totally kept my interest throughout. I learned a bit about traditional Hawaiian culture along the way. I enjoyed the various characters that are introduced throughout the book, especially the irrepressible Juniper and the joke-loving veterinarian, Joe Starr. If there’s a third book in this series, I hope those two will pop up again. Another lovely “character” was Woodrow, Maggie’s service dog.

Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for providing an advance readers copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book by author Kay Bratt in her By The Sea series. This book Follows Maggie Dalton and her son as She tries to restart her life in safety on Maui. Maggies's life has been disrupted by a stalker whom Maggie thinks is safely imprisoned. She has made the move to Maui to try and find peace again in her life with the help of her friend Quinn. The book also continues the storyline of Quinn, her new found family, and the inn that she hopes to open. Both Maggie's life and Quinn"s lives are threatened in very different ways, with twists and turns keeping the reader guessing on how they will resolve. The characters are well developed and the storylines intriguing.. However;I feel that in order to fully enjoy this book, the series should be read in order. This book is the perfect summer beach read