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First Family #1
State of Affairs
The phone call that changed their lives forever…
Minutes after Vice President Nick Cappuano and Lt. Sam Holland get the call that President Nelson has been found dead in the residence on Thanksgiving, they’re still processing that Nick has been asked to come to the White House to take the oath of office.
As they go through the motions to ensure a peaceful transition of power, Sam has a million and one concerns about her husband, her family, the Nelson family, the country and the enormity of what Nick is about to take on. In the back of her mind is another major concern: What does this mean for my job? No other first lady in history has held a job outside the White House, but she’s determined to be the first, to blaze new trails for those who will follow her. However, in order to do that, she quickly realizes that compromises will have to be made to continue working as a Homicide detective.
Their lives become an immediate firestorm of meetings, requests for interviews, difficult questions from their children and a host of potential landmines to navigate as they make the transition from second family to first family. An unexpected issue with a diplomatic trip to Iran quickly thrusts Nick into the thick of his new responsibilities while Sam confronts a murder investigation that may have ties to a cold case from fifteen years ago.
As everything around them spins out of control, Sam and Nick take refuge with each other, relying on their unbreakable bond to see them through the storm.
Minutes after Vice President Nick Cappuano and Lt. Sam Holland get the call that President Nelson has been found dead in the residence on Thanksgiving, they’re still processing that Nick has been asked to come to the White House to take the oath of office.
As they go through the motions to ensure a peaceful transition of power, Sam has a million and one concerns about her husband, her family, the Nelson family, the country and the enormity of what Nick is about to take on. In the back of her mind is another major concern: What does this mean for my job? No other first lady in history has held a job outside the White House, but she’s determined to be the first, to blaze new trails for those who will follow her. However, in order to do that, she quickly realizes that compromises will have to be made to continue working as a Homicide detective.
Their lives become an immediate firestorm of meetings, requests for interviews, difficult questions from their children and a host of potential landmines to navigate as they make the transition from second family to first family. An unexpected issue with a diplomatic trip to Iran quickly thrusts Nick into the thick of his new responsibilities while Sam confronts a murder investigation that may have ties to a cold case from fifteen years ago.
As everything around them spins out of control, Sam and Nick take refuge with each other, relying on their unbreakable bond to see them through the storm.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 20, 2021
3106 people are currently reading
6242 people want to read
About the author
Marie Force
209 books8,428 followersMarie Force is the New York Times bestselling author of contemporary romance, romantic suspense and erotic romance. Her series include Gansett Island, Fatal, Treading Water, Butler Vermont and Quantum.
Her books have sold more than 12 million copies worldwide, have been translated into more than a dozen languages and have appeared on the New York Times bestseller more than 30 times. She is also a USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestseller, as well as a Speigel bestseller in Germany.
Her goals in life are simple—to finish raising two happy, healthy, productive young adults, to keep writing books for as long as she possibly can and to never be on a flight that makes the news.
Join Marie’s mailing list on her website at marieforce.com for news about new books and upcoming appearances in your area. Follow her on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/MarieForceAuthor and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/marieforceauthor/. Contact Marie at marie@marieforce.com.
Her books have sold more than 12 million copies worldwide, have been translated into more than a dozen languages and have appeared on the New York Times bestseller more than 30 times. She is also a USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestseller, as well as a Speigel bestseller in Germany.
Her goals in life are simple—to finish raising two happy, healthy, productive young adults, to keep writing books for as long as she possibly can and to never be on a flight that makes the news.
Join Marie’s mailing list on her website at marieforce.com for news about new books and upcoming appearances in your area. Follow her on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/MarieForceAuthor and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/marieforceauthor/. Contact Marie at marie@marieforce.com.
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September 2, 2021I hope you guys love my new book State of Affairs and new First Family Series, featuring Sam and Nick from the Fatal Series! I'm soooo excited to bring you this book on April 20!
June 16, 2021
I’ve been loving this series since the first book. And if you are a fan of Eve and Roarke from the IN DEATH series by Nora Roberts, you’ll enjoy this one too.
It’s a new beginning for Nick and Sam. Nick is being sworn in as the President of America. And Sam, is now the First Lady. What a conundrum.
I have only read one other book where the hero is becoming president, Mr President by Katy Evans. But I must say that I really enjoy this kind of story arc. It makes for an interesting spin. Especially in the case of Sam Holland. Because she will buck at the restraints and push buttons to be the first fictional First Lady to still perform her job. She is such a strong and kick ass woman. This change will be a real challenge for her, and I’m here for it.
There are so many things I love about this series. It has a bigger focus on romance than the IN DEATH series. But it also has similar devoted characters and a close knitted circle of friends. Additionally Nick and Sam are a power couple not much different to Eve and Roarke. And the snarky camaraderie between Sam and her partner Freddie is just the right kind of fun. They almost act like big sister and little brother.
Moreover the author is very consistent in delivering what I expect from this series. Lots of interactions with characters I love. Wonderful scenes between Nick, Sam and their adoptive children. Many romantic moments between the couple. And some deeper topics here and there.
Now when it comes to STATE OF AFFAIRS it felt a bit slower than the other books. It read like a bridge that connects the old arc with the new one. From Nick getting sworn in to finally moving to the White House, it’s a big change for everyone, not just for the brand-new First Family. There are new jobs for old friends. And everyone’s helping together to make the transition as smoothly as possible for the Cappuanos. And even though the police work took a backseat in this book, I can only imagine the fascinating cases that will come up in the future.
So, if you haven’t read about Sam and Nick yet, but you love romantic suspense and a kick ass couple, you need to pick up FATAL AFFAIR.
___________________________________
You can find me on my blog and on Bookstagram
It’s a new beginning for Nick and Sam. Nick is being sworn in as the President of America. And Sam, is now the First Lady. What a conundrum.
I have only read one other book where the hero is becoming president, Mr President by Katy Evans. But I must say that I really enjoy this kind of story arc. It makes for an interesting spin. Especially in the case of Sam Holland. Because she will buck at the restraints and push buttons to be the first fictional First Lady to still perform her job. She is such a strong and kick ass woman. This change will be a real challenge for her, and I’m here for it.
There are so many things I love about this series. It has a bigger focus on romance than the IN DEATH series. But it also has similar devoted characters and a close knitted circle of friends. Additionally Nick and Sam are a power couple not much different to Eve and Roarke. And the snarky camaraderie between Sam and her partner Freddie is just the right kind of fun. They almost act like big sister and little brother.
Moreover the author is very consistent in delivering what I expect from this series. Lots of interactions with characters I love. Wonderful scenes between Nick, Sam and their adoptive children. Many romantic moments between the couple. And some deeper topics here and there.
Now when it comes to STATE OF AFFAIRS it felt a bit slower than the other books. It read like a bridge that connects the old arc with the new one. From Nick getting sworn in to finally moving to the White House, it’s a big change for everyone, not just for the brand-new First Family. There are new jobs for old friends. And everyone’s helping together to make the transition as smoothly as possible for the Cappuanos. And even though the police work took a backseat in this book, I can only imagine the fascinating cases that will come up in the future.
So, if you haven’t read about Sam and Nick yet, but you love romantic suspense and a kick ass couple, you need to pick up FATAL AFFAIR.
___________________________________
You can find me on my blog and on Bookstagram
June 21, 2021
Can’t deny I was skeptical going into this, Nick becoming President was a hell of a way to mix things up after so many books and a successful formula throughout the Fatal series. But it worked and worked well, Sam and Nick are still Sam and Nick only now they come with a West Wing vibe and I’m looking forward to the next book already.
March 12, 2021
HAIL TO THE NEW CHIEF!
And watch out world because Sam's now The First Lady as she and the new Prez move their family and a large number of family and friends into the White House in various positions. And yes, Sam is still going to be fighting crime at Metro Police, along with her team -- can't imagine that not bringing twists, turns, hilarity and mass hysteria, as well.
The first book in the "First Family" series (a spin-off from Fatal Affairs) is sure to delight and please fans. There are going to be some bumps along the way, intense criminal cases to solve, drama and tension, along with tender and meaningful moments, great laugh-out-loud comical relief, oohs and aahs, and surprises, too. As always, be prepared for just about anything and everything that this author may throw at us!
Not much more I'm willing to give away without spoiling the supreme treats that await readers on April 20th when this one goes live! Suffice to say that you're going to fall in love all over again with the newest rip-roarin' antics about to hit the White House as Marie Force spins us all to another level with the Cappuano family, along with romance, suspense, laughter and love.
April 3, 2025
the setup…
This story opens one minute after the end of the final book in the Fatal series…when Vice President Nick Cappuano receives the call that the President has died. In that one moment, everything changes for him and his wife, Metro Police Lieutenant Samantha (Sam) Holland. The Secret Service detail doubles, they’re hustled to the White House and plans for the swearing in are immediately underway. Sam worries about moving her family from the home they love and figuring out how she can continue her career and be First Lady. Not to mention, Nick’s facing his first crisis when a diplomatic trip to Iran turns to a potential hostage situation. Happy Thanksgiving.
the heart of the story…
I was happy that the focus was mostly on the transition from the family’s perspective. The first reactions of friends and extended family members, the deer-in-the-headlights existence as Sam and Nick must absorb tons of information requiring instant decisions all felt realistic. The cold case Sam had initiated and the domestic violence assault on one of her detectives was secondary but enough to satisfy the procedural aspects. I was fascinated by it all.
the narration…
Eva Kaminsky continues as the narrator and I couldn’t be happier. She also has rounded Sam’s edges some, a sign maybe of things to come.
the bottom line…
It felt right to have this first book in the spinoff be more about the initial couple of days in the transition because I wanted to know everything about that. I also learned a lot about the White House residence, how the family is served and other protocols. My interest in what comes next is certainly piqued as Sam has put her husband first more unselfishly than I’ve ever seen! I had a good time with the new First Family.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
This story opens one minute after the end of the final book in the Fatal series…when Vice President Nick Cappuano receives the call that the President has died. In that one moment, everything changes for him and his wife, Metro Police Lieutenant Samantha (Sam) Holland. The Secret Service detail doubles, they’re hustled to the White House and plans for the swearing in are immediately underway. Sam worries about moving her family from the home they love and figuring out how she can continue her career and be First Lady. Not to mention, Nick’s facing his first crisis when a diplomatic trip to Iran turns to a potential hostage situation. Happy Thanksgiving.
the heart of the story…
I was happy that the focus was mostly on the transition from the family’s perspective. The first reactions of friends and extended family members, the deer-in-the-headlights existence as Sam and Nick must absorb tons of information requiring instant decisions all felt realistic. The cold case Sam had initiated and the domestic violence assault on one of her detectives was secondary but enough to satisfy the procedural aspects. I was fascinated by it all.
the narration…
Eva Kaminsky continues as the narrator and I couldn’t be happier. She also has rounded Sam’s edges some, a sign maybe of things to come.
the bottom line…
It felt right to have this first book in the spinoff be more about the initial couple of days in the transition because I wanted to know everything about that. I also learned a lot about the White House residence, how the family is served and other protocols. My interest in what comes next is certainly piqued as Sam has put her husband first more unselfishly than I’ve ever seen! I had a good time with the new First Family.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
April 27, 2021
Sadly I think this is it for me. I loved Nick and Sam but this series has become ridiculous and tedious to read. I think my eyes almost rolled out of my head the amount of times I rolled them. I use to love this series but Sam has become extremely annoying and not like able even tho the author pushes her likability with everyone in the book and how she is the smartest of them all. Need relationship advice....go to Sam....need to solve a case in a day...go to Sam....need to work three jobs....go to Sam...even tho she comes off as a crabby ass in my opinion and don’t forget to get her last name right...which one is it again? Oh and don’t forget she is so good she gets past the secret service 🙄. Anyway I could go on but I am just highly disappointed. This use to be such an amazing series that I couldn’t wait to read. I get it’s fiction but this was just laughable and not what I felt with many of the other books.
April 18, 2025
This book is wrong. Just plain old wrong. Not just fiction, but science fiction. As unrelated to reality as pigs flying. While Force can write a great mystery plot, the totally unbelievable way that Sam and Nick handle the transition from second family to first family overshadows that. Sam refuses to acknowledge that she needs to make some adjustments now that her husband is the President of the United States. I'm not surprised at all, Sam is one stubborn, selfish piece of work, for the first half of the book anyway.
As the reality of her situation finally seeps through, Sam shows surprising maturity in how she leans on those around her to help with the transition to the White House. Graciously accepting a secret service detail is a major concession. Promising that she will stick around is a weight off Nick's mind at a stressful time for him. Throw in that her approval numbers for keeping her police job are soaring and while Sam may grumble, she is going to make it work.
Throw in a fresh murder and a cold case and Sam is back in action.
3 1/2-Stars
As the reality of her situation finally seeps through, Sam shows surprising maturity in how she leans on those around her to help with the transition to the White House. Graciously accepting a secret service detail is a major concession. Promising that she will stick around is a weight off Nick's mind at a stressful time for him. Throw in that her approval numbers for keeping her police job are soaring and while Sam may grumble, she is going to make it work.
Throw in a fresh murder and a cold case and Sam is back in action.
3 1/2-Stars
August 31, 2021
This book is a transition from the Fatal series to this one.
It leans heavily on how they will arrange their lives from VP to President and First Lady, how will they manage the children, the house, the choosing of various assistants, etc.
Did I liked it? Yes, because it is a fair description of how anybody would feel about a big change in their lives.
It is not so much centered on investigation like the previous series, but it's still good and I'm looking forward to see how things will develop.
It leans heavily on how they will arrange their lives from VP to President and First Lady, how will they manage the children, the house, the choosing of various assistants, etc.
Did I liked it? Yes, because it is a fair description of how anybody would feel about a big change in their lives.
It is not so much centered on investigation like the previous series, but it's still good and I'm looking forward to see how things will develop.
December 16, 2021
This book is the first in the series, but it's definitely got to be a spinoff series. I felt like there was stuff that I was missing. The story and thriller-ish of the book kind of fell flat too. I wasn't really impressed.
April 24, 2021
Good transition between series! Nick is President of the United States...and YES...that means Sam is the First Lady! Anyone seeing the problem here?? haha Force does a great job with the couple working through some major issues and sets the stage for book 2. Looking forward to the journey!
April 22, 2021
After all the hype the story was lackluster and disappointing, slow in parts, and just too much going on in too many directions. Same characters here, some just given new roles to play, eventually. But again, with so much going on, most of these characters have very little story time. And have I mentioned how much I truly DISLIKE the new book covers. I read these books because I love Nick, and sorry cover model, you dude, are no Nick. Wish the author would go back to the old scenery covers and let me have my imaginary Nick back.
April 22, 2021
At last April arrived and I was able to take my next fix of this very addictive series. Thoroughly enjoyed it, stretched it out as much as I could, but that's hard! Sometimes with a book I go "oh I am only at 30%, so long to the end." With a Sam and Nick and family book I go " Oh I am only at 30%, that's good I have lots more to read". Have already ordered State of Grace. Love the White House aspect, the family dynamics, Sam doing her job and doing it well.
April 29, 2021
I found this book very hard to read. It was all over the place, too many things to keep track of. I kept skipping pages because I found Sam very annoying. Do we really need to hear her think "oh for god's sake" every time someone reacts to her being the First Lady?
It was also VERY unrealistic. I mean, the whole aide-to-senator-to-vicepresident premise was unrealistic... not to mention this. From a security point of view there's NO WAY she gets to keep her job. And do we really need to take ALL the previous characters and reinvent new roles for them? I thought this was going to be something fresh, but it's just the same old thing with a different series title. I HATE how Mary Force keeps pairing off people. It's really unrealistic... not ALL your friends end up dating a friend of yours. Most people just meet random people.
I used to love Sam and Nick, but now they're just... not my thing.
It was also VERY unrealistic. I mean, the whole aide-to-senator-to-vicepresident premise was unrealistic... not to mention this. From a security point of view there's NO WAY she gets to keep her job. And do we really need to take ALL the previous characters and reinvent new roles for them? I thought this was going to be something fresh, but it's just the same old thing with a different series title. I HATE how Mary Force keeps pairing off people. It's really unrealistic... not ALL your friends end up dating a friend of yours. Most people just meet random people.
I used to love Sam and Nick, but now they're just... not my thing.
May 3, 2024
I am happy that I found this brilliant novel with fantastic characters.
I usually like stories that weave together complex relationships, family dynamics, and a touch of romance. State of Affairs appears to be a perfect match, as it explores the intricacies of a high-stakes romance amidst the chaos of politics. It also explores themes of family, growth, and police procedural mystery with its blend of emotional depth and lighthearted moments.
Yes, it is a spin-off series, but I thoroughly enjoyed the relationship that Sam (Samantha) & Nick have in the overly complex married relationship while navigating Nick's higher political career and Sam's Police career, as well as their young family. They must fight the world, but their love, family, and friends are there to lend a hand and help with the journey the Cappuano-Holland family is transitioning.
After reading State of Affairs, I want to start the first book or prequel novella that builds the strong relationship that Sam and Nick have and continue with every book in Marie Force 's backlist, what she writes, and what she will write. I found a new favorite author.
I usually like stories that weave together complex relationships, family dynamics, and a touch of romance. State of Affairs appears to be a perfect match, as it explores the intricacies of a high-stakes romance amidst the chaos of politics. It also explores themes of family, growth, and police procedural mystery with its blend of emotional depth and lighthearted moments.
Yes, it is a spin-off series, but I thoroughly enjoyed the relationship that Sam (Samantha) & Nick have in the overly complex married relationship while navigating Nick's higher political career and Sam's Police career, as well as their young family. They must fight the world, but their love, family, and friends are there to lend a hand and help with the journey the Cappuano-Holland family is transitioning.
After reading State of Affairs, I want to start the first book or prequel novella that builds the strong relationship that Sam and Nick have and continue with every book in Marie Force 's backlist, what she writes, and what she will write. I found a new favorite author.
January 16, 2024
Contemporary Romance Series challenge 2024. Kobo + and KU e book. The first in this political romance contemporary series "First Family "by Marie Force. This is a cliffhanger ready for the next part of the story. The MC's are h Samantha Holland Leitenant Head of Homicide in DC and Nick Capuanno the Vice President suddenly President. They have a family an adopted son Scotty and twins that they adopted after the twins parents died. The focus of the story is about the transition moving to the white house and taking care of staff replacements, new media and about Sam keeping her job. This was more of a chick-lit book than a romance. It is a great drama and quite clean. I could see it as a mini-series for people who like good stories. I gave it 4 stars.
April 26, 2021
I really wanted to like it, but I feel it was all over the place. It’s understandable, like Sam is being pulled at from all sides, the book is too. A cold case, the née role as First Lady, the kids, Nick, plus her detectives’ personal lives, to name a few. So it was not a great Fatal book. It just didn’t have the great case running in the foreground while the lives of everyone we knew played in the background.
This is not the only MF series I have read, but it’s the only series I have continued due to the fantastic cases that moved the story along. The reason why the other series stopped working fir me is because of the immense cast that take up space in the book. Yes, it’s nice to get a drop in from the other casts, but they are legion, and soon the book is 70% catching up and 30% new story.
I had to scratch my head a little at all the people Sam connected with who pop up in this book too. Roni was such a passing character, and now all of a sudden she has a role in the White House and apparently a new book for her story.
It’s so odd to see Sam working her day job while carrying out all of her First Lady duties. Mostly because being LT to the homicide unit is a job with such long hours, and who does the work when she had to fly out for the funeral? Just thinking of the improbable practicalities of the situation.
Fingers crossed for book 2 to have the magic of the other Fatal books.
This is not the only MF series I have read, but it’s the only series I have continued due to the fantastic cases that moved the story along. The reason why the other series stopped working fir me is because of the immense cast that take up space in the book. Yes, it’s nice to get a drop in from the other casts, but they are legion, and soon the book is 70% catching up and 30% new story.
I had to scratch my head a little at all the people Sam connected with who pop up in this book too. Roni was such a passing character, and now all of a sudden she has a role in the White House and apparently a new book for her story.
It’s so odd to see Sam working her day job while carrying out all of her First Lady duties. Mostly because being LT to the homicide unit is a job with such long hours, and who does the work when she had to fly out for the funeral? Just thinking of the improbable practicalities of the situation.
Fingers crossed for book 2 to have the magic of the other Fatal books.
March 29, 2021
The anticipation is killing me, I'm sure if it's like all the other Marie Force books this will be fantastic!
May 29, 2021
State of Affairs (First Family #1) by Marie Force
Synopsis /
Minutes after Vice President Nick Cappuano and Lt. Sam Holland get the call that President Nelson has been found dead in the residence on Thanksgiving, they’re still processing that Nick has been asked to come to the White House to take the oath of office.
As they go through the motions to ensure a peaceful transition of power, Sam has a million and one concerns about her husband, her family, the Nelson family, the country and the enormity of what Nick is about to take on. In the back of her mind is another major concern: What does this mean for my job? No other first lady in history has held a job outside the White House, but she’s determined to be the first, to blaze new trails for those who will follow her. However, in order to do that, she quickly realizes that compromises will have to be made to continue working as a Homicide detective.
Their lives become an immediate firestorm of meetings, requests for interviews, difficult questions from their children and a host of potential landmines to navigate as they make the transition from second family to first family. An unexpected issue with a diplomatic trip to Iran quickly thrusts Nick into the thick of his new responsibilities while Sam confronts a murder investigation that may have ties to a cold case from fifteen years ago.
My Thoughts /
Even though this is the first book in this series, it really started 16 books prior, with a book titled
Fatal Affair. Here we are first introduced to Washington, D.C., Metro Police Detective Sergeant Sam Holland, and, to Nick Cappuano – friend and Chief of Staff to Senator John O'Connor. Nick, also happens to be the man Sam had a memorable one-night stand with years earlier. Over the course of the next 16 books, a fictional NY police department begins to take shape. There’s a chief, deputy chief, detective captain, detective lieutenant, detectives, patrol officers, and a medical examiner. The author has skilfully developed relationships by giving these characters stories that keep them front and centre in Sam’s life.
The Fatal series has probably been my most favourite series written by Marie Force. So I knew that I was definitely going to read this one. So, book 1, here we are - it’s a new beginning. With the sudden and unexplained death of President Nelson, (Vice President) Nick finds himself now being sworn in as the new President of United States. And Sam, well, this now makes Sam the First Lady. It’s a big change for everyone and not just for the brand-new First Family. There are new jobs for old friends and everyone lends a helping hand, pitching in together to make the transition as smooth as possible for the new President and First Lady. The author is very consistent in delivering what is expected from this new series. There is lots of interactions with characters that I love, some wonderful scenes between Nick, Sam and their children, as well as their close knitted circle of friends. Marie Force's writing is so vividly descriptive. The cliff hanger we are left with at the end makes me look forward to book 2. An enjoyable start to a new series.
Synopsis /
Minutes after Vice President Nick Cappuano and Lt. Sam Holland get the call that President Nelson has been found dead in the residence on Thanksgiving, they’re still processing that Nick has been asked to come to the White House to take the oath of office.
As they go through the motions to ensure a peaceful transition of power, Sam has a million and one concerns about her husband, her family, the Nelson family, the country and the enormity of what Nick is about to take on. In the back of her mind is another major concern: What does this mean for my job? No other first lady in history has held a job outside the White House, but she’s determined to be the first, to blaze new trails for those who will follow her. However, in order to do that, she quickly realizes that compromises will have to be made to continue working as a Homicide detective.
Their lives become an immediate firestorm of meetings, requests for interviews, difficult questions from their children and a host of potential landmines to navigate as they make the transition from second family to first family. An unexpected issue with a diplomatic trip to Iran quickly thrusts Nick into the thick of his new responsibilities while Sam confronts a murder investigation that may have ties to a cold case from fifteen years ago.
My Thoughts /
Even though this is the first book in this series, it really started 16 books prior, with a book titled
Fatal Affair. Here we are first introduced to Washington, D.C., Metro Police Detective Sergeant Sam Holland, and, to Nick Cappuano – friend and Chief of Staff to Senator John O'Connor. Nick, also happens to be the man Sam had a memorable one-night stand with years earlier. Over the course of the next 16 books, a fictional NY police department begins to take shape. There’s a chief, deputy chief, detective captain, detective lieutenant, detectives, patrol officers, and a medical examiner. The author has skilfully developed relationships by giving these characters stories that keep them front and centre in Sam’s life.
The Fatal series has probably been my most favourite series written by Marie Force. So I knew that I was definitely going to read this one. So, book 1, here we are - it’s a new beginning. With the sudden and unexplained death of President Nelson, (Vice President) Nick finds himself now being sworn in as the new President of United States. And Sam, well, this now makes Sam the First Lady. It’s a big change for everyone and not just for the brand-new First Family. There are new jobs for old friends and everyone lends a helping hand, pitching in together to make the transition as smooth as possible for the new President and First Lady. The author is very consistent in delivering what is expected from this new series. There is lots of interactions with characters that I love, some wonderful scenes between Nick, Sam and their children, as well as their close knitted circle of friends. Marie Force's writing is so vividly descriptive. The cliff hanger we are left with at the end makes me look forward to book 2. An enjoyable start to a new series.
August 30, 2023
One of my all time favourite detectives is back enjoying a peaceful evening after an emotional Thanksgiving. The first without her precious dad Skip.
But with Nick, Scotty, Alden, Aubrey and Elijah around her everything is good. Well as good as it can be when your a lieutenant in the homicide division married to the Vice President of the United States.
Then the phone call happens and everything changes.
The president is dead.
And as Nick, Sam and Scotty rush to the White House so Nick can be sworn in. Sam receives a call one of her detectives has been viciously attacked and for once she can't act.
Yet, she's detemined to keep her job and is ready to get back to work and soon has a gang rape, murder and cold case to solve.
But with a media storm brewing, a move to the white house and a new role to navigate solving three cases isn't going to be easy.
However, this is Lieutenant Sam Holland and with the support of Nick, her family and friends she's determined to do it all. No matter what anyone says.
And with political intrigue (thanks to Nick's new office), suspense, heat and great humour. State of Affairs is a cracking read and the perfect continuation of the Fatal Series.
It's also a story I would happily recommend to others.
But with Nick, Scotty, Alden, Aubrey and Elijah around her everything is good. Well as good as it can be when your a lieutenant in the homicide division married to the Vice President of the United States.
Then the phone call happens and everything changes.
The president is dead.
And as Nick, Sam and Scotty rush to the White House so Nick can be sworn in. Sam receives a call one of her detectives has been viciously attacked and for once she can't act.
Yet, she's detemined to keep her job and is ready to get back to work and soon has a gang rape, murder and cold case to solve.
But with a media storm brewing, a move to the white house and a new role to navigate solving three cases isn't going to be easy.
However, this is Lieutenant Sam Holland and with the support of Nick, her family and friends she's determined to do it all. No matter what anyone says.
And with political intrigue (thanks to Nick's new office), suspense, heat and great humour. State of Affairs is a cracking read and the perfect continuation of the Fatal Series.
It's also a story I would happily recommend to others.
October 21, 2021
Suspense, drama, humor, and romance continue with Nick and Sam in the new series called ‘First Family’. Back and forth witty banter between Sam and her partner Freddie always makes me laugh. Not as much going on in the first book but I loved following their adjustment of their new rolls as President and First Lady in the White House. Sam still continues with her amazing bad ass cop skills but this time she shows a softer side at times allowing friends get closer to her. It definitely sets the stage for the next book coming in December. I’m looking forward to more Nick, Sam, and the rest of the crew!
May 8, 2021
*3.5* This book was a bit of a disappointment. No real case being solved, which left the storyline unanchored. I appreciate the research Ms Force did in White House protocols and her ease in folding these into the story. What I didn't appreciate is experiencing so much of the story thru Sam's perspective - my god, she can be such a selfish cow! I can usually put up with her nonsense because the supporting characters are enjoyable and the case their working entertaining, but there was none of that in this book. I'm hoping the next book will be more entertaining.
April 23, 2021
5 Star Review of State of Affairs (First Family #1) by Marie Force
AUDIO REVIEW:
I couldn’t wait to dive in to the first book in Nick and Sam’s newest journey. This was a great book and one that I listened to in one go. I couldn’t out it on hold not for a minute. I just had to know what was going to happen. The narrator Eve Kaminsky did a great job bringing the story to life for me.
It was so great to be back in the world of Nick and Sam, their family and friends, it really is like coming home when I read these books. Nick and Sam are so well suited to each other and their love continues to grow whilst living complicated and at times dangerous lives.
Ms.Force delivered a story that had me on an tender hooks with twists and turns that left me reeling as Nick and Sam faced a life altering event. Not only that but the heat and sizzle between Nick and Sam was intense as always.
You will be drawn into this story, you cannot help yourself, such is the skill of Ms.Force you cannot help but become invested in all of the characters. I always love catching up with Sam, Nick, Scotty, The Littles and their extended family.
AUDIO REVIEW:
I couldn’t wait to dive in to the first book in Nick and Sam’s newest journey. This was a great book and one that I listened to in one go. I couldn’t out it on hold not for a minute. I just had to know what was going to happen. The narrator Eve Kaminsky did a great job bringing the story to life for me.
It was so great to be back in the world of Nick and Sam, their family and friends, it really is like coming home when I read these books. Nick and Sam are so well suited to each other and their love continues to grow whilst living complicated and at times dangerous lives.
Ms.Force delivered a story that had me on an tender hooks with twists and turns that left me reeling as Nick and Sam faced a life altering event. Not only that but the heat and sizzle between Nick and Sam was intense as always.
You will be drawn into this story, you cannot help yourself, such is the skill of Ms.Force you cannot help but become invested in all of the characters. I always love catching up with Sam, Nick, Scotty, The Littles and their extended family.
December 31, 2022
This was interesting, I liked that they are already a established couple and though the story revolves around them and their family its not the only part.
It how they deal with change of careers from Vice President to President. I really enjoyed it and there wasn't any relationship dramalama at all that was surprising to me.
I am intrigued to listen to the other books in this series.
It how they deal with change of careers from Vice President to President. I really enjoyed it and there wasn't any relationship dramalama at all that was surprising to me.
I am intrigued to listen to the other books in this series.
May 31, 2024
I really enjoyed this story and Marie Force’s writing. It made me think that she should do a dual story with JD Robb and have a cross over with Eve and Sam. I liked the detail of stepping from Fuzz to FLOTUS and how both Sam and Nick dealt with that. I’m interested to read more in this series and it made me want to get back to the Fatal series.
April 23, 2021
Another great read by Marie Force! I love the new storyline as the family moves to the White House. The Fatal Series is my guilty pleasure, but the books are definitely not without substance. I so enjoy the mix of politics and crime! Already looking forward to the next book in December....
February 2, 2025
As advertised lol. Some spice. White House bits interesting. Cop stuff honestly kind of silly. President stuff pretty cool. All in all entertaining.
April 24, 2021
This has been an explosive book and I was so very resentful every time real life interrupted my reading. I loved every minute with Sam and Nick, from the minute they were getting ready to go the White House to the last chapter when they adopted a puppy!
May 26, 2021
Ugh! It has taken me a few weeks to write this mostly because I needed to read some quality prose to get the absolute bullshit from this book out of my head.
The repetition, the absurdity of the entire premise...I just don't know that I can continue with this series. I am not usually one to quit a series, but my eyes are taking a beating with all the rolling. I started taking notes, but then realized it was going to take forever to finish the book if I continued.
I don't understand why the author feels the need to have EVERYONE connected in some way back to Sam & Nick. Like, Terry and Lindsey or Tommy & Christina, Avery & Shelby. Why? At times it feels a bit incestuous.
One of my big sticking points was the complete lack of logic when it comes to time and pressing matters. There was absolutely no reason they had to wait for Nelson's wife to fly in from South Dakota before swearing Nick in. Not sure that in this day and age they would actually wait three plus hours (yes, I checked the flight time from South Dakota to DC and three plus is being generous when you have to factor in that she brought her entire family with her). The other was Terry inviting his fiancé to a funeral and her, a medical doctor, squealing about Air Force One. Act like the fucking adult you are!
How many times did we have to read about Sam whining about having to move. They didn't have to pack a damn thing themselves.
The only reasonable, honest and logical person in this entire book was Ramsay when he told Sam she was a selfish bitch. That was spot on! She is selfish, she doesn't care about anyone but herself, as has been proven over and over. Perfect example: She was so looking forward to spending the day with her kids, yet she didn't go with them to the zoo, she essentially went to work.
And Nick? He is a very weak character. There is no conflict of meaning in that relationship. Anytime conflict arises, he caves to Sam and never is honest about what he really wants. Also, he doesn't seem to take his job very seriously at all. The end, taking Sam's feeling about a VP choice as the deciding factor? WTF?
The "case". One afternoon, that is all it took to find Calvin's killer. So very many things wrong with the timeline, the forensics/DNA, everything! Just so wrong. And now she is going to review EVERY case Stahl worked? That is just going to heap more shit upon the department that is already under investigation by the FBI. Again, just Sam thinking of herself.
The repetition, the absurdity of the entire premise...I just don't know that I can continue with this series. I am not usually one to quit a series, but my eyes are taking a beating with all the rolling. I started taking notes, but then realized it was going to take forever to finish the book if I continued.
I don't understand why the author feels the need to have EVERYONE connected in some way back to Sam & Nick. Like, Terry and Lindsey or Tommy & Christina, Avery & Shelby. Why? At times it feels a bit incestuous.
One of my big sticking points was the complete lack of logic when it comes to time and pressing matters. There was absolutely no reason they had to wait for Nelson's wife to fly in from South Dakota before swearing Nick in. Not sure that in this day and age they would actually wait three plus hours (yes, I checked the flight time from South Dakota to DC and three plus is being generous when you have to factor in that she brought her entire family with her). The other was Terry inviting his fiancé to a funeral and her, a medical doctor, squealing about Air Force One. Act like the fucking adult you are!
How many times did we have to read about Sam whining about having to move. They didn't have to pack a damn thing themselves.
The only reasonable, honest and logical person in this entire book was Ramsay when he told Sam she was a selfish bitch. That was spot on! She is selfish, she doesn't care about anyone but herself, as has been proven over and over. Perfect example: She was so looking forward to spending the day with her kids, yet she didn't go with them to the zoo, she essentially went to work.
And Nick? He is a very weak character. There is no conflict of meaning in that relationship. Anytime conflict arises, he caves to Sam and never is honest about what he really wants. Also, he doesn't seem to take his job very seriously at all. The end, taking Sam's feeling about a VP choice as the deciding factor? WTF?
The "case". One afternoon, that is all it took to find Calvin's killer. So very many things wrong with the timeline, the forensics/DNA, everything! Just so wrong. And now she is going to review EVERY case Stahl worked? That is just going to heap more shit upon the department that is already under investigation by the FBI. Again, just Sam thinking of herself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 22, 2021
Disappointing
I've read each and every book this series and this is the one I've found the most disappointing. Too much hype on the White House and not enough nitty-gritty. Sadly there has been no thought given to the people who have suffered through this pandemic and are looking for a temporary escape - to lose themselves, be transported for a limited time in good book only to find there has been a price increase, I certainly know of a few people that can no longer afford to pay this price. What a let down.
I've read each and every book this series and this is the one I've found the most disappointing. Too much hype on the White House and not enough nitty-gritty. Sadly there has been no thought given to the people who have suffered through this pandemic and are looking for a temporary escape - to lose themselves, be transported for a limited time in good book only to find there has been a price increase, I certainly know of a few people that can no longer afford to pay this price. What a let down.
January 16, 2022
The story summary should mention that this novel is a continuation of the Fatal series. I didn’t enjoy reading it as a standalone novel.
As I listened to the audiobook, there were brief snippets of the characters’ backstories. I double checked that this was this first novel in the First Family series. It was only after finishing the audiobook and looking at reviews that I realized that it’s a continuation of the Fatal series. I am so disappointed because I hate to read books in a series out of order.
The things I enjoyed.
1. The audiobook narration was really great. It is probably why I persevered until the end.
2. The murder subplot was interesting.
3. The story is well written.
Things I did not enjoy.
1. Getting hints of some of the backstory but not knowing everything. For example, who is the guy who helps looks after the twins?
2. Sam. Didn’t she and her husband have a talk before he accepted the role as vice-president? It seemed like I knew more about the role of the First Lady than she did. And all her whining about it drove me mad.
3. The president dies in the first chapter but we don’t find out the cause until the last one. What is up with that? Initially, I thought this would be some sort of political thriller with Sam on the case.
4. Ending the book with a random cliffhanger. The author obviously has a strong readership, and it was totally unnecessary. It didn’t even make sense to me because I assumed that the twins had been adopted.
As I listened to the audiobook, there were brief snippets of the characters’ backstories. I double checked that this was this first novel in the First Family series. It was only after finishing the audiobook and looking at reviews that I realized that it’s a continuation of the Fatal series. I am so disappointed because I hate to read books in a series out of order.
The things I enjoyed.
1. The audiobook narration was really great. It is probably why I persevered until the end.
2. The murder subplot was interesting.
3. The story is well written.
Things I did not enjoy.
1. Getting hints of some of the backstory but not knowing everything. For example, who is the guy who helps looks after the twins?
2. Sam. Didn’t she and her husband have a talk before he accepted the role as vice-president? It seemed like I knew more about the role of the First Lady than she did. And all her whining about it drove me mad.
3. The president dies in the first chapter but we don’t find out the cause until the last one. What is up with that? Initially, I thought this would be some sort of political thriller with Sam on the case.
4. Ending the book with a random cliffhanger. The author obviously has a strong readership, and it was totally unnecessary. It didn’t even make sense to me because I assumed that the twins had been adopted.
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