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Treading Water #3
Starting Over
In a drunken stupor, Brandon O'Malley frightens his brother Aidan's girlfriend, enraging his brother and the rest of his family. Aidan offers Brandon the choice of rehab or jail, and Brandon reluctantly enters treatment. While in rehab, he confronts the lifetime of secrets and resentments that fueled his spiral into alcoholism, and these revelations have a major effect on his entire family. When he returns home expecting to resume his supervisory role in the family’s construction business, Brandon learns his father has retired and put his younger brothe, Colin, in charge. Brandon is unhappy to be given the job of renovating an apartment building where he loses his heart to an adorable five-year-old tenant named “Mike.” After he falls hard for Michaela, Brandon becomes involved with her mother Daphne, who is running from a past that will later test his sobriety and his mettle as a man.
First published December 27, 2011
About the author
Marie Force
204 books7,860 followersMarie Force is the New York Times bestselling author of contemporary romance, romantic suspense and erotic romance. Her series include Gansett Island, Fatal, Treading Water, Butler Vermont and Quantum.
Her books have sold more than 12 million copies worldwide, have been translated into more than a dozen languages and have appeared on the New York Times bestseller more than 30 times. She is also a USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestseller, as well as a Speigel bestseller in Germany.
Her goals in life are simple—to finish raising two happy, healthy, productive young adults, to keep writing books for as long as she possibly can and to never be on a flight that makes the news.
Join Marie’s mailing list on her website at marieforce.com for news about new books and upcoming appearances in your area. Follow her on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/MarieForceAuthor and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/marieforceauthor/. Contact Marie at marie@marieforce.com.
Her books have sold more than 12 million copies worldwide, have been translated into more than a dozen languages and have appeared on the New York Times bestseller more than 30 times. She is also a USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestseller, as well as a Speigel bestseller in Germany.
Her goals in life are simple—to finish raising two happy, healthy, productive young adults, to keep writing books for as long as she possibly can and to never be on a flight that makes the news.
Join Marie’s mailing list on her website at marieforce.com for news about new books and upcoming appearances in your area. Follow her on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/MarieForceAuthor and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/marieforceauthor/. Contact Marie at marie@marieforce.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
April 17, 2015
Overall rating: 4 "Second Chance" stars!
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimate pasts:
HEA:
My review:
Let me preface my review by saying this - one of the things I love about this series is the absence of manwhores. I am talking NO ONE, not even any of the secondary characters - including brothers and friends are manwhores and it is so damn refreshing it is unbelievable! Also, one's sexual past is not even thrown in your face. It is a NON-issue! Which I absolutely love!
This book was different than the first two because this book, although it contains many of the same recurring characters, is focused on some newer characters. If you read book 2, you know Brandon is Aiden O'Malley's brother (Clare's new man) and you will remember that scene that caused him to hit rock bottom with his alcohol addiction and landed him in rehab for a month. I loved reading about his experience and rehab and how he wanted to make amends. Brandon turned to alcohol years ago as a coping mechanism to deal with two very deep secrets he has been hiding for years. I loved how when he got out of rehab, he didn't beat around the bush and addressed his issues with his family. He was a standup guy and can I just say I loved how he was with "Mike." That little girl was hilarious. I just LOVED her. I found myself laughing out loud a few times with the things she would say. He was always attracted to Daphne as well - as soon as she met him, but she acted like a bitch aka the ice queen (with good reason come to find out).
I loved seeing Colin move on as well and take the chance on someone other than work for a change. Their secondary romance was cute. I even loved how their other brother Declan got engaged as well! :)
Unlike the other two books, this one did have a slightly suspenseful section to it, as well as some sadness. (including one of my small triggers This book has no other woman drama at all.
The epilogue was super sweet and I loved it! Although, I can't wait to read more from this group of people - including Kate and Reid's story!
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimate pasts:
HEA:
My review:
Let me preface my review by saying this - one of the things I love about this series is the absence of manwhores. I am talking NO ONE, not even any of the secondary characters - including brothers and friends are manwhores and it is so damn refreshing it is unbelievable! Also, one's sexual past is not even thrown in your face. It is a NON-issue! Which I absolutely love!
This book was different than the first two because this book, although it contains many of the same recurring characters, is focused on some newer characters. If you read book 2, you know Brandon is Aiden O'Malley's brother (Clare's new man) and you will remember that scene that caused him to hit rock bottom with his alcohol addiction and landed him in rehab for a month. I loved reading about his experience and rehab and how he wanted to make amends. Brandon turned to alcohol years ago as a coping mechanism to deal with two very deep secrets he has been hiding for years. I loved how when he got out of rehab, he didn't beat around the bush and addressed his issues with his family. He was a standup guy and can I just say I loved how he was with "Mike." That little girl was hilarious. I just LOVED her. I found myself laughing out loud a few times with the things she would say. He was always attracted to Daphne as well - as soon as she met him, but she acted like a bitch aka the ice queen (with good reason come to find out).
I loved seeing Colin move on as well and take the chance on someone other than work for a change. Their secondary romance was cute. I even loved how their other brother Declan got engaged as well! :)
Unlike the other two books, this one did have a slightly suspenseful section to it, as well as some sadness. (including one of my small triggers This book has no other woman drama at all.
The epilogue was super sweet and I loved it! Although, I can't wait to read more from this group of people - including Kate and Reid's story!
March 24, 2012
Why the one-star when Marie Force is one of my top three favorite authors? I could not get into this story line. I could tell that the author did a lot of research about AA but the story contained too many details that I got bored. I also did not connect with the H.
Books 1 and 2 were so amazing, full of angst and heartbreak. I hope my rating of the book doesn't discourage any to try it. It might be your cup of tea. Marie is a wonderful author. I just did not connect with this story, hence the rating.
Books 1 and 2 were so amazing, full of angst and heartbreak. I hope my rating of the book doesn't discourage any to try it. It might be your cup of tea. Marie is a wonderful author. I just did not connect with this story, hence the rating.
December 19, 2011
Book Three in Treading Water Trilogy
An excellent conclusion to the "Treading Water" trilogy. Once again, Marie Force offers her readers another extraordinarily interesting and entertaining storyline which includes sizzling romance and intriguing characters who'll make you cry, laugh and love right along with them. "Starting Over" features Brandon O'Malley who, despite his refusal to acknowledge he has a drinking problem, lands in rehab after he attacks his brother's girlfriend. Getting his life back on track is going to be harder than he thought. But when he meets Daphne and her daughter, "Mike" who have secrets of their own, life begins to take on new meaning and make sense once again. The author demonstrates her versatility and talent by creating a story that will draw the reader's attention from the beginning to the ending. The relationship that builds between these three characters is quite compelling and endearing.
When you think this book can't get any better, you'll arrive at the Epilogue and find you were oh so wrong! It's simply terrific and will touch your heart deeply. I highly recommend the entire "Treading Water" trilogy because it is outstanding from the first word through the very last word.
An excellent conclusion to the "Treading Water" trilogy. Once again, Marie Force offers her readers another extraordinarily interesting and entertaining storyline which includes sizzling romance and intriguing characters who'll make you cry, laugh and love right along with them. "Starting Over" features Brandon O'Malley who, despite his refusal to acknowledge he has a drinking problem, lands in rehab after he attacks his brother's girlfriend. Getting his life back on track is going to be harder than he thought. But when he meets Daphne and her daughter, "Mike" who have secrets of their own, life begins to take on new meaning and make sense once again. The author demonstrates her versatility and talent by creating a story that will draw the reader's attention from the beginning to the ending. The relationship that builds between these three characters is quite compelling and endearing.
When you think this book can't get any better, you'll arrive at the Epilogue and find you were oh so wrong! It's simply terrific and will touch your heart deeply. I highly recommend the entire "Treading Water" trilogy because it is outstanding from the first word through the very last word.
December 4, 2019
» 4.5 von 5 Sternen «
Mit "Wenn das Glück uns findet" liefert Marie Force den für mich bisher besten Teil der Reihe. Dank großartigen, vielschichtigen Figuren wirkt die mehr als mitreißende Storyline noch lebendiger. Ganz überraschend trifft man hier sogar auf eine Portion Crime, die das Tempo und die Spannungskurve ordentlich ankurbelt. Kurz um: genial gelöst und absolut fesselnd. Wieso es trotzdem "nur" 4.5 Sterne und nicht die volle Punktzahl geworden ist, hab ich euch » hier « ausführlich erzählt. Falls ihr also neugierig seid; schaut gerne vorbei. Da jeder Teil dieser Reihe eine eigenständige Geschichte mitbringt, ist die Rezension absolut spoilerfrei.
Mit "Wenn das Glück uns findet" liefert Marie Force den für mich bisher besten Teil der Reihe. Dank großartigen, vielschichtigen Figuren wirkt die mehr als mitreißende Storyline noch lebendiger. Ganz überraschend trifft man hier sogar auf eine Portion Crime, die das Tempo und die Spannungskurve ordentlich ankurbelt. Kurz um: genial gelöst und absolut fesselnd. Wieso es trotzdem "nur" 4.5 Sterne und nicht die volle Punktzahl geworden ist, hab ich euch » hier « ausführlich erzählt. Falls ihr also neugierig seid; schaut gerne vorbei. Da jeder Teil dieser Reihe eine eigenständige Geschichte mitbringt, ist die Rezension absolut spoilerfrei.
December 30, 2011
Authors please pay attention- if you want to know how to write the kind of epilogues that readers want, read Starting Over's. Not only was the whole book wonderful, the epilogue had everything, I mean everything I want- it had a heartwarming twist, it provided updates for the series'major characters [a must for the readers], and it required a few tissues. Thank you Marie Force for ending this lovely trilogy on a perfect note!
January 13, 2012
I so enjoyed this whole trilogy and highly recommend it! Marie Force is a favorite author of mine because her stories are deeper, a little edgier in plot line (this one was about and alcoholic) and evoke so much emotion from me - I can always count on a good cry and an uplifting HEA. She is also the queen of Love at First Sight story lines, which I don't always want, sometimes I like the "I love you's" to take awhile, but sometimes they are exactly what I need.
Starting Over has two, slightly three love stories intertwined. The main one is Brandon O'Malley, who was introduced in book 2 when his brothers took him to rehab. It was a very touching part of this book to watch him go through all the steps and stages. I didn't feel some of the conclusions Brandon came to as to what caused his downward spiral were as strong as I felt necessary, but I loved how his family rallied around him (both good and bad) and supported him. The scene stealer for me was Mike, the 5 year old daughter of Daphne, Brandon's love interest. She was so adorable, with her blond ringlets, chubby legs, and boys name. What was the best was that Brandon fell in love with her first and she just melted his heart with her love. There also was a love story for the two other brothers which was good, nothing too deep in development though.
Treading Water (Book 1) was my favorite story of the series, but I LOVED the epilogue at the end of Starting Over. A bunch of books I have read lately have had some incredible epilogues. When an author really takes the time, as in this series, to give you a thorough HEA, it makes me want to read everything on her book list. And this Epilogue was the bomb and had to reread it a couple of times because it was so good, yet a little sad.
Starting Over has two, slightly three love stories intertwined. The main one is Brandon O'Malley, who was introduced in book 2 when his brothers took him to rehab. It was a very touching part of this book to watch him go through all the steps and stages. I didn't feel some of the conclusions Brandon came to as to what caused his downward spiral were as strong as I felt necessary, but I loved how his family rallied around him (both good and bad) and supported him. The scene stealer for me was Mike, the 5 year old daughter of Daphne, Brandon's love interest. She was so adorable, with her blond ringlets, chubby legs, and boys name. What was the best was that Brandon fell in love with her first and she just melted his heart with her love. There also was a love story for the two other brothers which was good, nothing too deep in development though.
Treading Water (Book 1) was my favorite story of the series, but I LOVED the epilogue at the end of Starting Over. A bunch of books I have read lately have had some incredible epilogues. When an author really takes the time, as in this series, to give you a thorough HEA, it makes me want to read everything on her book list. And this Epilogue was the bomb and had to reread it a couple of times because it was so good, yet a little sad.
December 28, 2011
Yes –(4 stars) Definitely enjoyed Brandon and the story surrounding his troubles with alcohol and journey to higher ground. The scene with him at the cemetery was a heart grabber and a Kleenex moment. No – (2.5-3 stars) Didn’t care for the whim, wham of the (and I hate to say this because I love Marie Force’s books) sappy love stories here. Again, as with Marking Time I feel like this story was another Lifetime movie and these lives are on a quick time table to meet fall head over heels in love and marry in a 2 hour allotted movie. I adore Marie Force but these last 2 books were disappointing making me wonder WTH?!? For instance with Brandon/Daphne…would an already freaked out parent allow their 5 yr old child to get in a car to go to someone else’s house with a man they hardly know!?!!? That was a definite stretch. And Colin and Meredith!?! Are you kidding me?!? I meet you, I love you, I want to marry you – after one date?!? Over the top sappy. Both couples love stories were just too unbelievable for me.
Down but not out, I know I can count on Marie Force to deliver with Nick/Sam come Fatal Flaw in 2012, or with the Gansett Island crew. Not overly disappointed that out of the 17 of her books read only 2 disappointed, that’s not bad at all.
Down but not out, I know I can count on Marie Force to deliver with Nick/Sam come Fatal Flaw in 2012, or with the Gansett Island crew. Not overly disappointed that out of the 17 of her books read only 2 disappointed, that’s not bad at all.
December 26, 2011
LOVED this book! The O'Malley's are such an amazing family.
I laughed out loud at Dennis' fear of Daphne...so funny to imagine a big tough guy, whos raised 5 kids being scared of one woman.
I absolutly loved Mike and Brandon's relationship. She was the star of the book for me. The epilogue...tissues please!!!
I loved seeing Colin and Declan get their HEA's. Especially Colin, the steadfast "good kid", it was time he had something special just for himself.
On a side note, I was a little sad not to see the resolution of Kate and Reid's relationship. I guess it one of those relationships where they loved each other, but wasn't meant to be. I think I wanted it to work out mostly because of Reid he needs some love.
Its going to be hard deciding what to read next after 3 such amazing books...
I laughed out loud at Dennis' fear of Daphne...so funny to imagine a big tough guy, whos raised 5 kids being scared of one woman.
I absolutly loved Mike and Brandon's relationship. She was the star of the book for me. The epilogue...tissues please!!!
I loved seeing Colin and Declan get their HEA's. Especially Colin, the steadfast "good kid", it was time he had something special just for himself.
On a side note, I was a little sad not to see the resolution of Kate and Reid's relationship. I guess it one of those relationships where they loved each other, but wasn't meant to be. I think I wanted it to work out mostly because of Reid he needs some love.
Its going to be hard deciding what to read next after 3 such amazing books...
July 17, 2016
An engrossing story with lots of information on alcoholism and enough romance including love at first sight secondary romances. Plot, pace and action all good with exciting ending. Recovering alcoholic Brandon meets Daphne and her precocious daughter living in the building he is restoring.
June 5, 2021
Da ich irgendwie gerade süchtig nach den Büchern von Marie Force bin, hab ich vor kurzem die Neuengland-Reihe angefangen. Sie gefällt mir echt gut und dieser Band ist mit Abstand mein Liebling. Ich bin sofort in der Geschichte versunken und wollte daraus nicht mehr auftauchen. Es gab Gansett Island und Abbott Vibes, was mir dieses Buch zusätzlich versüßt hat. Ich bin ganz bezaubert von Mike, mit ihrer kindlichen Art hat sie die Geschichte noch mehr aufgelockert. Jetzt bin ich scfin echt neugierig auf den vierten Band.
5 Sterne
5 Sterne
October 20, 2017
There are certain things that shouldn't be rushed. One of them is romance with a recovering alcoholic when you have a 5 year old. Also, why are you letting this dude you've know for a couple months, be alone with your kid? idk. The other subplots are also rushed and silly.
July 31, 2022
Rated a 4.5
March 10, 2018
Tear Jerker Deluxe!
This book could have been a series all on its own WOW! To say I loved it is an understatement it was amazing, absolutely amazing. Forgive me for gushing but I seldom find a book that truly takes my breath away and this one has. Brandon, Daphne and Michaela’s story is one for the ages from the moment they meet.... The entire O’Malley clan take part in this superb story filled with angst, love, and serious issues,beautifully handled. Kudos to Ms. Force for her research and insight. I Highly recommend this book that can be read as a stand alone but you should read the preceding books in this series you will be glad you did, 5 STARS ALL THE WAY WISH I COULD GIVE IT 11!
This book could have been a series all on its own WOW! To say I loved it is an understatement it was amazing, absolutely amazing. Forgive me for gushing but I seldom find a book that truly takes my breath away and this one has. Brandon, Daphne and Michaela’s story is one for the ages from the moment they meet.... The entire O’Malley clan take part in this superb story filled with angst, love, and serious issues,beautifully handled. Kudos to Ms. Force for her research and insight. I Highly recommend this book that can be read as a stand alone but you should read the preceding books in this series you will be glad you did, 5 STARS ALL THE WAY WISH I COULD GIVE IT 11!
July 6, 2020
I liked this book but it didn’t have the character development books 1 and 2 had. Too much happened too fast.
March 8, 2018
Starting Over
Another book in the series that has you bawling your eyes out one moment and smiling and laughing the next. While this book is mostly Brandon's story you still get caught up with the rest of the family. This book can be read as a standalone but some parts won't make as much sense and besides you don't want to miss any of the story.
Another book in the series that has you bawling your eyes out one moment and smiling and laughing the next. While this book is mostly Brandon's story you still get caught up with the rest of the family. This book can be read as a standalone but some parts won't make as much sense and besides you don't want to miss any of the story.
September 29, 2019
Rezension
Buchname: Wenn das Glück uns findet (Neuengland 3)
Autor: Marie Force
Seiten: 423 (Print)
Verlag: Montlake Romance (20. August 2019)
Sterne: 5
Cover:
Das Cover ist richtig schön gestaltet worden. Der Buchtitel steht in dunklen Buchstaben im oberen Bereich. Man sieht ein Pärchen, dass auf einer Küste steht und im Hintergrund ist das Meer. .. Auf dem ersten Blick ist das schon mal sehr ansprechend.
Klappentext: (aus Amazon übernommen)
Eine berührende Geschichte um Liebe und Vergebung von #1 BILD-Bestsellerautorin Marie Force.
Die O’Malleys sind eine große herzliche Familie und immer füreinander da. Selbst dann, als Brandon O’Malley wegen seiner Alkoholsucht in einer Klinik landet und mit all den Härten eines Entzugs zu kämpfen hat.
Auch ein kleines Mädchen namens Mike gibt Brandon neuen Lebensmut. Die eigenwillige Fünfjährige und ihre bezaubernde Mutter Daphne erobern sein Herz im Sturm, doch nur allzu bald holt Daphnes Vergangenheit die drei ein. Wird Brandon sich der Herausforderung stellen und um sein Lebensglück kämpfen?
Neue Ausgabe: Die lieferbare Ausgabe von »Wenn das Glück uns findet« wurde überarbeitet und neu gestaltet.
Schreibstil:
Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist total flüssig, liest sich super und ist sehr leicht verständlich. Das Buch wurde hauptsächlich aus der Sicht von Brandon geschrieben.
Charaktere:
Die Hauptprotagonistin ist Daphne
Der Hauptprotagonist ist Brandon
Ich fande alle Charaktere von Anfang an total sympathisch und liebenswert. Des weiteren gibt es noch ein paar andere Charaktere. . Meiner Meinung nach sind alle Charakter sehr gelungen und haben einen sehr guten Platz im Buch bekommen.
Meinung:
!!!! Achtung !!! Könnte Spoiler erhalten!!!
Meiner Meinung nach ist der dritte Band der Neuengland Reihe der beste Teil. Ich persönlich finde auch, dass es eins der besten Bücher ist, die Marie Force jeweils geschrieben hat. Mir hat die Geschichte rund um Brandon extrem gut gefallen. Es war einfach so schön zu lesen. Und Mike war einfach der oberknaller. Ich fande sie total süß gemacht. Sie hat auch sofort mein Herz erobert. Daphne und Brandon sowie Mike waren absolut authentisch und sehr gelungen. Es war richtig schön zu lesen wie sich alles entwickelt hat. Das kann einem echt Hoffnung machen. Marie schafft es immer wieder in ihren Geschichte etwas magisches zu erschaffen. Für mich zu mindestens. Diese Idylle und die wunderbare Familie ist einfach toll. Das Gefühl von „angekommen“ zu sein, gefällt mir persönlich am allermeisten. Wenn jeder seinen Deckel findet und dann die heile Welt. Auch wenn mal die absolute Katastrophe eintritt, wird am Ende alles Gut werden. Zwar ein bisschen vorhersehbar, aber was sollst. Das Buch war echt nur mal wieder ein Meisterwerk. Habe sogar am Ende ein paar Tränen vergossen. Freue mich schon sehr auf Teil 4. Von mir bekommt das Buch eine klare Leseempfehlung und sehr grandiose 5 Sterne.
Buchname: Wenn das Glück uns findet (Neuengland 3)
Autor: Marie Force
Seiten: 423 (Print)
Verlag: Montlake Romance (20. August 2019)
Sterne: 5
Cover:
Das Cover ist richtig schön gestaltet worden. Der Buchtitel steht in dunklen Buchstaben im oberen Bereich. Man sieht ein Pärchen, dass auf einer Küste steht und im Hintergrund ist das Meer. .. Auf dem ersten Blick ist das schon mal sehr ansprechend.
Klappentext: (aus Amazon übernommen)
Eine berührende Geschichte um Liebe und Vergebung von #1 BILD-Bestsellerautorin Marie Force.
Die O’Malleys sind eine große herzliche Familie und immer füreinander da. Selbst dann, als Brandon O’Malley wegen seiner Alkoholsucht in einer Klinik landet und mit all den Härten eines Entzugs zu kämpfen hat.
Auch ein kleines Mädchen namens Mike gibt Brandon neuen Lebensmut. Die eigenwillige Fünfjährige und ihre bezaubernde Mutter Daphne erobern sein Herz im Sturm, doch nur allzu bald holt Daphnes Vergangenheit die drei ein. Wird Brandon sich der Herausforderung stellen und um sein Lebensglück kämpfen?
Neue Ausgabe: Die lieferbare Ausgabe von »Wenn das Glück uns findet« wurde überarbeitet und neu gestaltet.
Schreibstil:
Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist total flüssig, liest sich super und ist sehr leicht verständlich. Das Buch wurde hauptsächlich aus der Sicht von Brandon geschrieben.
Charaktere:
Die Hauptprotagonistin ist Daphne
Der Hauptprotagonist ist Brandon
Ich fande alle Charaktere von Anfang an total sympathisch und liebenswert. Des weiteren gibt es noch ein paar andere Charaktere. . Meiner Meinung nach sind alle Charakter sehr gelungen und haben einen sehr guten Platz im Buch bekommen.
Meinung:
!!!! Achtung !!! Könnte Spoiler erhalten!!!
Meiner Meinung nach ist der dritte Band der Neuengland Reihe der beste Teil. Ich persönlich finde auch, dass es eins der besten Bücher ist, die Marie Force jeweils geschrieben hat. Mir hat die Geschichte rund um Brandon extrem gut gefallen. Es war einfach so schön zu lesen. Und Mike war einfach der oberknaller. Ich fande sie total süß gemacht. Sie hat auch sofort mein Herz erobert. Daphne und Brandon sowie Mike waren absolut authentisch und sehr gelungen. Es war richtig schön zu lesen wie sich alles entwickelt hat. Das kann einem echt Hoffnung machen. Marie schafft es immer wieder in ihren Geschichte etwas magisches zu erschaffen. Für mich zu mindestens. Diese Idylle und die wunderbare Familie ist einfach toll. Das Gefühl von „angekommen“ zu sein, gefällt mir persönlich am allermeisten. Wenn jeder seinen Deckel findet und dann die heile Welt. Auch wenn mal die absolute Katastrophe eintritt, wird am Ende alles Gut werden. Zwar ein bisschen vorhersehbar, aber was sollst. Das Buch war echt nur mal wieder ein Meisterwerk. Habe sogar am Ende ein paar Tränen vergossen. Freue mich schon sehr auf Teil 4. Von mir bekommt das Buch eine klare Leseempfehlung und sehr grandiose 5 Sterne.
September 23, 2022
Klappentext
Die O’Malleys sind eine große herzliche Familie und immer füreinander da. Selbst dann, als Brandon O’Malley wegen seiner Alkoholsucht in einer Klinik landet und mit all den Härten eines Entzugs zu kämpfen hat.
Auch ein kleines Mädchen namens Mike gibt Brandon neuen Lebensmut. Die eigenwillige Fünfjährige und ihre bezaubernde Mutter Daphne erobern sein Herz im Sturm, doch nur allzu bald holt Daphnes Vergangenheit die drei ein. Wird Brandon sich der Herausforderung stellen und um sein Lebensglück kämpfen?
Meine Meinung
Das Buch erzählt hauptsächlich aus der Sicht von Brandon O'Malley. Brandon ist Alkoholiker und hat mit seiner Alkoholsucht seine Familie kaputt gemacht, weswegen diese ihn in eine Entzugsklinik schicken. Er leugnet das aber und versucht alles in Frust und Wut zu ertränken. Erst langsam findet er zu sich selbst zurück und blickt tief in die Vergangenheit.
Daphne liebt ihre kleine Tochter über alles, hat sich aber angewöhnt, nie zu lange an einem Ort zu bleiben. Sie ist vorsichtig, entschlossen und weiß ihren Weg zu gehen. Brandon und Daphne treffen unerwartet aufeinander und dennoch ist es Mike, die kleine Tochter von Daphne, die sie immer wieder zusammenbringt.
Ein Teil der Geschichte wird auch aus Sicht von Colin O'Malley, der einen interessanten Einblick auf die Auswirkungen eines Alkoholikers in der Familie gibt und mehr über das Familienleben erzählt, abseits der Geschichte von Daphne und Brandon.
Es werden interessante und ernste Themen behandelt mit genügend Seriosität und Sensibilität. Die Liebesgeschichte rund um Daphne und Brandon fügt sich angenehm in die Geschichte ein, denn sie entwickelt sich langsam und fügt sich natürlich ein, während die Geschichte und die Charaktere sich weiterentwickeln. Es gibt einige überraschende Wendungen und Entwicklungen. Der Schreibstil ist angenehm und flüssig zu lesen.
Bewertung
Eine gelungene Fortsetzung mit anderen Charakteren, die mich wirklich tief berühren konnte trotz der ernsten Themen und mir ähnlich gut gefallen hat wie der Vorgänger. Das Buch konnte mich wirklich gut unterhalten und bekommt von mir verdiente
4,5 von 5 Würmchen
Die O’Malleys sind eine große herzliche Familie und immer füreinander da. Selbst dann, als Brandon O’Malley wegen seiner Alkoholsucht in einer Klinik landet und mit all den Härten eines Entzugs zu kämpfen hat.
Auch ein kleines Mädchen namens Mike gibt Brandon neuen Lebensmut. Die eigenwillige Fünfjährige und ihre bezaubernde Mutter Daphne erobern sein Herz im Sturm, doch nur allzu bald holt Daphnes Vergangenheit die drei ein. Wird Brandon sich der Herausforderung stellen und um sein Lebensglück kämpfen?
Meine Meinung
Das Buch erzählt hauptsächlich aus der Sicht von Brandon O'Malley. Brandon ist Alkoholiker und hat mit seiner Alkoholsucht seine Familie kaputt gemacht, weswegen diese ihn in eine Entzugsklinik schicken. Er leugnet das aber und versucht alles in Frust und Wut zu ertränken. Erst langsam findet er zu sich selbst zurück und blickt tief in die Vergangenheit.
Daphne liebt ihre kleine Tochter über alles, hat sich aber angewöhnt, nie zu lange an einem Ort zu bleiben. Sie ist vorsichtig, entschlossen und weiß ihren Weg zu gehen. Brandon und Daphne treffen unerwartet aufeinander und dennoch ist es Mike, die kleine Tochter von Daphne, die sie immer wieder zusammenbringt.
Ein Teil der Geschichte wird auch aus Sicht von Colin O'Malley, der einen interessanten Einblick auf die Auswirkungen eines Alkoholikers in der Familie gibt und mehr über das Familienleben erzählt, abseits der Geschichte von Daphne und Brandon.
Es werden interessante und ernste Themen behandelt mit genügend Seriosität und Sensibilität. Die Liebesgeschichte rund um Daphne und Brandon fügt sich angenehm in die Geschichte ein, denn sie entwickelt sich langsam und fügt sich natürlich ein, während die Geschichte und die Charaktere sich weiterentwickeln. Es gibt einige überraschende Wendungen und Entwicklungen. Der Schreibstil ist angenehm und flüssig zu lesen.
Bewertung
Eine gelungene Fortsetzung mit anderen Charakteren, die mich wirklich tief berühren konnte trotz der ernsten Themen und mir ähnlich gut gefallen hat wie der Vorgänger. Das Buch konnte mich wirklich gut unterhalten und bekommt von mir verdiente
4,5 von 5 Würmchen
October 24, 2019
Wenn das Glück uns findet ist der dritte Roman aus der Neuengland Serie von Marie Force. Diesmal begleiten wir Brandon O’Malley, der im zweiten Band bereits einen wenig rühmlichen Auftritt hatte. Dort bedrängte er Clare und wurde daraufhin von seinen Brüdern in eine Entzugsklinik eingeliefert.
Genau hier setzt das Buch ein. Brandon versteht anfangs überhaupt nicht, warum er dort gelandet ist, hat er doch nicht das Gefühl, Alkoholiker zu sein. Doch im Laufe der Therapie wird ihm klar, wie lange seine Familie ihn schon unterstützt und wie wenig er noch von seinem Leben mitbekommen hat.
Er lässt sich auf den Entzug ein und beginnt ein neues, enthaltsames Leben. Sein Vater möchte zuerst, dass er nicht wieder in der Firma arbeitet und gibt ihm daher den Job, ein Haus von Grund auf zu renovieren. In diesem Haus lebt auch Daphne mit ihrer Tochter Mike und Brandon verfällt beiden auf den ersten Blick.
Mich hat dieses Buch der Reihe wieder überzeugt. Marie Force hat auch hier wieder ein ungewöhnliches Thema für einen Liebesroman gewählt. Brandons Alkoholismus und die Auswirkungen auch auf die Angehörigen sind ein zentrales Thema. Aber auch Daphne und Mike haben ein Geheimnis, das es in sich hat. Und so wird es nochmal richtig spannend, als man schon der Meinung ist, dass doch jetzt alles gut werden kann.
Mir hat das Buch einige entspannte Lesestunden geschenkt, daher kann ich es nur empfehlen, wenn man auf der Suche nach einer schönen Liebesgeschichte ist. Ich freue mich auf jeden Fall schon auf weitere Bücher der Reihe, die ich sicher weiter verfolgen werde.
Genau hier setzt das Buch ein. Brandon versteht anfangs überhaupt nicht, warum er dort gelandet ist, hat er doch nicht das Gefühl, Alkoholiker zu sein. Doch im Laufe der Therapie wird ihm klar, wie lange seine Familie ihn schon unterstützt und wie wenig er noch von seinem Leben mitbekommen hat.
Er lässt sich auf den Entzug ein und beginnt ein neues, enthaltsames Leben. Sein Vater möchte zuerst, dass er nicht wieder in der Firma arbeitet und gibt ihm daher den Job, ein Haus von Grund auf zu renovieren. In diesem Haus lebt auch Daphne mit ihrer Tochter Mike und Brandon verfällt beiden auf den ersten Blick.
Mich hat dieses Buch der Reihe wieder überzeugt. Marie Force hat auch hier wieder ein ungewöhnliches Thema für einen Liebesroman gewählt. Brandons Alkoholismus und die Auswirkungen auch auf die Angehörigen sind ein zentrales Thema. Aber auch Daphne und Mike haben ein Geheimnis, das es in sich hat. Und so wird es nochmal richtig spannend, als man schon der Meinung ist, dass doch jetzt alles gut werden kann.
Mir hat das Buch einige entspannte Lesestunden geschenkt, daher kann ich es nur empfehlen, wenn man auf der Suche nach einer schönen Liebesgeschichte ist. Ich freue mich auf jeden Fall schon auf weitere Bücher der Reihe, die ich sicher weiter verfolgen werde.
December 22, 2011
I have to agree with a few of the other ladies that said Starting Over was their Favorite of the Treading Water Trilogy.
I can honestly say that Brandon stole my heart in this book and I think might hold onto it for a while. I tend to be a woman who always went after the man who needed to be "saved". So in Starting Over I found myself feeling so bad for Valerie, Brandon's ex, who put so much of herself into the relationship with a man who was lost. The book starts out with a lot of heavy baggage and as the book goes on, we are able to join Brandon on his road to recovery, shedding the pain and resentment along the way.
I wanted so bad for Brandon to find his HEA, to find someone who would accept him fully, as is, and Daphne was just the person for the job, even tho she tried her hardest to stay away. But when your five year old daughter falls for a man who looks like him...ummm yummy, how can your defenses not be lowered.
Marie Force created an amazing story with Starting Over that gives us hope that no one is ever lost, they just need someone to care enough to find them.
I can honestly say that Brandon stole my heart in this book and I think might hold onto it for a while. I tend to be a woman who always went after the man who needed to be "saved". So in Starting Over I found myself feeling so bad for Valerie, Brandon's ex, who put so much of herself into the relationship with a man who was lost. The book starts out with a lot of heavy baggage and as the book goes on, we are able to join Brandon on his road to recovery, shedding the pain and resentment along the way.
I wanted so bad for Brandon to find his HEA, to find someone who would accept him fully, as is, and Daphne was just the person for the job, even tho she tried her hardest to stay away. But when your five year old daughter falls for a man who looks like him...ummm yummy, how can your defenses not be lowered.
Marie Force created an amazing story with Starting Over that gives us hope that no one is ever lost, they just need someone to care enough to find them.
April 23, 2012
Eh, glad I only borrowed this one. This was one of those quick, easy contemporary reads that I like to gobble down once in awhile. I liked the first two books in the series they yanked a lot of outrage chains and they were super fun to read. This one fell all over itself in it's earnestness. Part of he problem is that the first part of the book felt like it was a by-the-book primer on AA and Al-Anon. I felt like I was reading a manual, not a story about this person's experience with alcohol addiction.
After the initial pedantic chapters, the story finally settles into itself and gets better. I have decided that I just need to roll with the fact that MF allows her characters to fall in love almost instantly without a lot of build up -- a lot of tell, only a little of show. I like aspects of her writing enough that I'll live with what will always largely be an issue for me. This book features not just one but two insta-loves. And I while I could kinda believe Brandon/Daphne, the meet-love-marriage with Colin & Meredith was too quick. Their "love-story" probably had the word-count equivalent of two chapters at most.
Not one of her best, imo.
After the initial pedantic chapters, the story finally settles into itself and gets better. I have decided that I just need to roll with the fact that MF allows her characters to fall in love almost instantly without a lot of build up -- a lot of tell, only a little of show. I like aspects of her writing enough that I'll live with what will always largely be an issue for me. This book features not just one but two insta-loves. And I while I could kinda believe Brandon/Daphne, the meet-love-marriage with Colin & Meredith was too quick. Their "love-story" probably had the word-count equivalent of two chapters at most.
Not one of her best, imo.
July 15, 2022
This was a wonderful addition to this series! I loved really getting to know the rest of the O'Malley family (Aidan's siblings and parents). This book focuses on Brandon, who is working to stay sober after events from Marking Time occur. Shortly after returning from rehab, he meets a little girl named Mike who takes a liking to him. Then he meets her mother.
This book is more than a love story- more than that, I loved watching Brandon in his recovery, making his amends, and truly learning so much. I loved Colin and how he understood that alcoholism is a family disease and that it affected everyone.
The rest of the O'Malleys are what you would expect from a large, Irish Catholic family! I loved them!
Definite reread!
This book is more than a love story- more than that, I loved watching Brandon in his recovery, making his amends, and truly learning so much. I loved Colin and how he understood that alcoholism is a family disease and that it affected everyone.
The rest of the O'Malleys are what you would expect from a large, Irish Catholic family! I loved them!
Definite reread!
December 24, 2011
My grade: C+. This is the third book of a trilogy. I didn't read the first two books but had no trouble keeping all the characters and backstories straight. The book starts with Brandon starting a 30 day rehab.
All 4 O'Malley brothers had relationships to fix, and all issues were rather quickly resolved near the end.
I liked Brandon's journey: accepting his alcoholism and his struggle with sobriety. That was unusual in a romance and I appreciated the research Force did. I liked Brandon and 5 year old Mike. I wish I'd had the POV of Daphne and less skipping from brother to brother. And all in all, a book I enjoyed.
All 4 O'Malley brothers had relationships to fix, and all issues were rather quickly resolved near the end.
I liked Brandon's journey: accepting his alcoholism and his struggle with sobriety. That was unusual in a romance and I appreciated the research Force did. I liked Brandon and 5 year old Mike. I wish I'd had the POV of Daphne and less skipping from brother to brother. And all in all, a book I enjoyed.
May 4, 2013
I really didn't think I was going to like this book as much as the first two, as the storyline is a little bit of a deviation from the others. (My plan was to rush through it so I could get to the 4th book and catch up with the other characters). Boy was I wrong! This book turned on the water works BIG TIME! I enjoyed all of the book, but I'd say the last 1/4 or 1/3 (not sure) I simply COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN and that Epilogue!!!! I got 1/2 way through it and had to start back reading it from the beginning. (It even has a little bit of a Fatal feel from time to time....) Another amazing book by Marie Force!
April 21, 2014
Another O'Malley here, after Aidan in the previous book, we meet Brandon, who has serious alchol issue. After 30 days in rehab Brandon has to begin again with his family, his brothers and all the people he hurt in his drunken fog.
But he meets Mike, a wonderful 5 years old girl, who needs a father and her mother, who needs a friend and maybe someone who'll love her.
For those two woman Brandon becomes finally the man all his family wanted him to be.
Very emotional and sweet. A great trilogy, recommended!
But he meets Mike, a wonderful 5 years old girl, who needs a father and her mother, who needs a friend and maybe someone who'll love her.
For those two woman Brandon becomes finally the man all his family wanted him to be.
Very emotional and sweet. A great trilogy, recommended!
December 22, 2011
My favorite and a wonderful third book in this series. Realistic situations, beautifully packed together. I love the O'Malley clan! The relationship they all have is what - for me - was the core of this book and what made it work so well. But I have to say Mike & Brandon's relationship is the killer :) That kid slays me!!
February 3, 2015
Multiple plots involving the O'Malley family and the women the O'Malley sons love; an alcoholic son, Brandon, and his fight for sobriety; kidnapping of Brandon's fiancee's daughter; a powerful senator; and several other sub-plots. ALL are woven together with the hand of a master that you won't want to put down once you start to read this one!.
December 26, 2011
So, SO amazing! This book has it all. As in all Marie Force books, there is definitely romance, but there is also a solid dose of humor, drama, and lots of tissue moments. You will fall in love with the O'Malley's and the people around them.
August 2, 2012
Loved all the books in the Treading Water Series, but by far my favorite was this book! Brandon and his brothers showed the true meaning of brotherhood in this book, I wanted to belong to their family. I was torn when I realized that I would not be reading more on the O'Malley's!
December 9, 2011
Absolutely fabulous. Look for review on Night Owl Reviews
December 20, 2011
This is the BEST series I have read to date! This book was an emotional ride full of LOVE! Highly recommend.
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