Before I Go: Frank's Story (The Eastport Series)

A 2026 ACFW CAROL AWARD FINALIST FOR CONTEMPORARY FICTIONFrank Happy hoped he could flee the violence that plagued his growing up years and start a new life with his mother and brother in the quiet coastal town of Eastport, Maine. But building a life when anger resides on one shoulder and fear on the other is not an easy task.Delving deep into the complexities of family relationships and the devastating consequences of anger and unforgiveness, Before I Go, the prequel to the first novel of The Eastport Series, takes you on a tender, faith-filled, and at times gut-wrenching journey through Frank Happy's life–from his teenage years through adulthood.Fans of Lisa Wingate and Jan Karon will want to add this gripping tale to their collections.Before I Go grabbed me by the throat in the first few pages. The characters are relatable and develop in a way that made me care what happens in their lives. As someone whose roots in Eastport, Maine, run deep, I enjoyed the way the landmarks and the character of the community I know and love are woven seamlessly throughout this touching story of love and faith overcoming adversity.Kevin Raye,Former Maine Senate PresidentEastport native, and fourth generationco-owner of Raye’s Mustard MillBefore I Go has captivating characters and fast-moving action in an ideal setting. Before you can blink there is a fight, a car crash, and a romance. Marilyn K Blair has a gift, not just for storytelling, but for making you feel a part of the story. You’ll feel the highs and lows, the ins and outs of life, and relive significant moments of what we have all faced. You’ll be moved as you read, and your heart will be stirred for what we all long for.Gordon DouglasComedian, Inspirational Speaker,Author of Growth Spurts & Growin’ Painswww.gordondouglasisfunny.comMarilyn K Blair’s characters are complex and believable. She deals realistically with life’s pain and challenges and how they affect our relationships and our faith. Before I Go grabs you from the first pages and tells of human frailty and heartbreak redeemed by unconditional love. You’ll need a few tissues on hand for this one!Cheryl WeberLancaster Christian Writers Coordinatorwww.LancasterChristianWriters.orgBefore I Go compellingly portrays true-to-life trauma on hearts and minds, while also offering hope through the power of love, forgiveness, and faith. In this latest Eastport Series novel, Marilyn K Blair provides readers with not only a satisfying backstory for the previous books, but also a vision of the difference faith in God can make.Scott FisherPastor, Delaware Valley Christian Church Read more