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First Family #9
State of Retribution
A Baffling Series of Events Leads to An Unsettling Conclusion…
The First Family is hosting their first Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn of the White House when Secret Service agents mobilize to hustle them to safety. First Lady Samantha Cappuano wants to know where her children have been taken while President Nick Cappuano mobilizes his team to learn more about the threat that caused such a dramatic response.
Meanwhile, Sam’s homicide detectives at the Metropolitan Police Department are in the earliest stages of investigating three new murders of people struck down for no apparent reason as IT Lieutenant Archelotta cares for a new friend who was similarly attacked. One by one, the clues begin to add up to a disturbing conclusion that has Sam racing to put the pieces together before it’s too late. Adding to the chaos, she’s now accompanied by a much larger Secret Service detail.
As if that wasn’t enough for one week, a troubling incident from the past resurfaces and has Sam on defense, defending her career and reputation from a ruthless attack. An aura of retribution is in the air, but who’s behind it, and could the perpetrator be someone she—or Nick—have tangled with in the past?
Sam, Nick and the First Family cast face one vexing challenge after another, leading up to an explosive showdown that could change everything.
The First Family is hosting their first Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn of the White House when Secret Service agents mobilize to hustle them to safety. First Lady Samantha Cappuano wants to know where her children have been taken while President Nick Cappuano mobilizes his team to learn more about the threat that caused such a dramatic response.
Meanwhile, Sam’s homicide detectives at the Metropolitan Police Department are in the earliest stages of investigating three new murders of people struck down for no apparent reason as IT Lieutenant Archelotta cares for a new friend who was similarly attacked. One by one, the clues begin to add up to a disturbing conclusion that has Sam racing to put the pieces together before it’s too late. Adding to the chaos, she’s now accompanied by a much larger Secret Service detail.
As if that wasn’t enough for one week, a troubling incident from the past resurfaces and has Sam on defense, defending her career and reputation from a ruthless attack. An aura of retribution is in the air, but who’s behind it, and could the perpetrator be someone she—or Nick—have tangled with in the past?
Sam, Nick and the First Family cast face one vexing challenge after another, leading up to an explosive showdown that could change everything.
441 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2025
982 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
Marie Force
208 books8,392 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 [email protected].
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 [email protected].
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
July 24, 2025
3.5/5 stars
A little conflicted about this one. I really love this series because of the characters, but I didn’t find the resolution of the mystery all that compelling. It’s disappointing because I bought this ebook through Marie Force’s website specifically to read it sooner, and my overwhelming feeling is kind of “meh.”
I haven’t been able to put my finger on exactly why I enjoyed the Fatal series more than the First Family series, but after finishing this book, I think it comes down to the fact What happened to just working cases that were random murders in DC? Heck, even the kidnapping of Derek’s little girl in the Fatal series was more interesting than the recent cases.
I understand the need for Sam and Nick to grow and the very real tensions Nick would face as a Vice President assuming the Presidency after a year in office, but for him to have been in office 6 months and to have survived an attempted coup, multiple assassination attempts, and now multiple attempts to take his wife out to get to him feels silly. I’m hopeful that this book will clear the decks and leave some of the stale recurring plots behind so that we can focus on different things. Otherwise, it will feel like reading the same book for the 10th (or 26th) time.
A little conflicted about this one. I really love this series because of the characters, but I didn’t find the resolution of the mystery all that compelling. It’s disappointing because I bought this ebook through Marie Force’s website specifically to read it sooner, and my overwhelming feeling is kind of “meh.”
I haven’t been able to put my finger on exactly why I enjoyed the Fatal series more than the First Family series, but after finishing this book, I think it comes down to the fact What happened to just working cases that were random murders in DC? Heck, even the kidnapping of Derek’s little girl in the Fatal series was more interesting than the recent cases.
I understand the need for Sam and Nick to grow and the very real tensions Nick would face as a Vice President assuming the Presidency after a year in office, but for him to have been in office 6 months and to have survived an attempted coup, multiple assassination attempts, and now multiple attempts to take his wife out to get to him feels silly. I’m hopeful that this book will clear the decks and leave some of the stale recurring plots behind so that we can focus on different things. Otherwise, it will feel like reading the same book for the 10th (or 26th) time.
August 1, 2025
I was highly anticipating this new release from Marie Force to see what happened at the Easter Egg Roll. I never expected the story to take the turns it did. I was happy to see most characters came out unscathed. I know this is fiction, but at the same time it seems so wildly out there that no one in the MPD knew how awful these officers were. Coming from a law enforcement background, usually someone knows or has a feeling something is off. The town next to me is having a scandal with a police officer being arrested on multiple charges and he has a long history where most people in the town knew he was a bad egg. Parents kept their daughters away from him. I just feel some of this corruption is really coming from left field. It was nice to catch up with our favorite characters and learn more about Archie. I am sad to see him questioning his career choice and pretty much blaming Sam. I'm sure that would be a normal thought process, but I can't see it being plausible with such good friends. I don't know, it was a decent book but just feeling more far-fetched than the previous stories.
August 4, 2025
*4.5*
July 28, 2025
As fond as I am of Sam, Nick and their large family, again a good hundred pages could have been avoided, especially those praising Sam, praising the cops, praising Nick as father and president. To be fair, the story is there and the plot works, but it is in danger of being smothered under a flood of platitudes that serve only to reach a certain page count.
Per quanto io sia affezionata a Sam, Nick e alla loro numerosa famiglia, anche stavolta un buon centinaio di pagine si sarebbero potute evitare, specialmente quelle che lodano Sam, che lodano i poliziotti, che lodano Nick come padre e presidente. Insomma, la storia c'é, ma rischia di rimanere soffocata sotto una marea di luoghi comuni che servono solo a raggiungere un tot numero di pagine.
Per quanto io sia affezionata a Sam, Nick e alla loro numerosa famiglia, anche stavolta un buon centinaio di pagine si sarebbero potute evitare, specialmente quelle che lodano Sam, che lodano i poliziotti, che lodano Nick come padre e presidente. Insomma, la storia c'é, ma rischia di rimanere soffocata sotto una marea di luoghi comuni che servono solo a raggiungere un tot numero di pagine.
July 20, 2025
Marie Force continues to write books that catch us hook, line and sinker. Every word, character and plot keeep us coming back for more.
I never thought puke have guessed the story would have taken the direction it did. How she comes up with the stories lines continue to amaze me.
One of my feed favourite power couples will always be Sam and Nick!!
I never thought puke have guessed the story would have taken the direction it did. How she comes up with the stories lines continue to amaze me.
One of my feed favourite power couples will always be Sam and Nick!!
July 29, 2025
This series gets better and better with every new story. All the drama and suspense you could want, along with all of the emotion and romance you need. Sam and Nick have the best relationship and connection two people can share. They have become amazing parents, as they navigate their very public lives. I am always on the edge of my seat as I go along for the wild ride with these characters.
July 23, 2025
Another slam dunk! I just cannot get enough of Sam and Nick!! How Marie keeps these characters and stories always so fresh I have no idea, but I devour each and every one of them
Fantastic!
Fantastic!
July 26, 2025
Wow! Buckle up because it’s about to get real! There is a lot of drama in this latest addition to the First Family series, but the banter between characters keeps the mood lighter. Another winner for Force.
August 14, 2025
Meh, lots rehashed. Not as enjoyable for me as some of the previous books in this series.
September 7, 2025
I loved this one! So much going on affecting both Sam and Nick. Starting with the Easter Egg Hunt and then all the chaos that continues to happen to Sam and those in her orbit. So glad that we were able to see an end to these guys tormenting Sam. I love the way that Marie Force got this all resolved before the next cliffhanger! And Eva Kaminsky does a great job narrating (as always) with this one!
Can't wait until the next book comes out!
Can't wait until the next book comes out!
July 15, 2025
Another winner from Marie! Couldn’t put it down. Great story line
September 5, 2025
Another great read in the Family First series. I love the humor, witty comebacks, suspense, this book just hits all my likes. Sam and Nick are still awesome. I can't wait to read the next book
August 25, 2025
So much better than the last two books. Can’t wait until Dec for the next one!
August 9, 2025
This book of course picks up where the cliff hanger ending of the last book finished with the President and First Lady Nick and Sam Cappuanno being rushed back into the White House by the Secret Service in the middle of the annual White House Easter Egg Roll while their families and the events other attendees on the White House lawn are in chaos. We learn that a fleet of armed drones had been discovered in the No-Fly Zone around the White House. While they were successfully shot down by the Air Force before they got to the White House lawn, who was behind the attempted attack is a mystery. While the Secret Service and FBI are trying to solve that mystery Sam and her intrepid team of MPD homicide detectives are charged with finding the killer or killers that have begun senselessly murdering seemingly random victims around the D.C area via fatal blows to the back of their heads. Sam is irritated by the large contingent of Secret Service that are added to her personal formerly two agent detail of Vernon and Jimmy normally charged with driving her around to protect her while she tries to continue to do her job as head of the MPD homicide division.
This book contains all the ingredients we’ve come to expect in a First Family series story. There’s mystery, danger, suspense, loving feels, expressed in the close relationships Sam has with her team of homicide detectives, her family and some sexy times between the still frisky First Couple. There’s even some side romances between Lt. “Archie” Archuletta the head of the MPD’s I.T. division (whom Sam once had a fling with) and Harper, a woman he had begun to date and fall for, who is found seriously injured, and sexually assaulted with no memory of who she is or what happened to her. There’s even a side story involving occasional series secondary character U.S. Marshall Jesse Best with one of his direct reports Memphis Rose and the unsolved disappearance of Jesse’s younger sister from their backyard when she was only seven years old. I’m assuming that will eventually lead to a new series featuring Jesse and Memphis, or at least a new book. Some old villains, members and former members of the MPD reemerge. Given his many arrests including multiple attempts upon Sam’s life, why Ramsey isn’t already in jail is a mystery. Sure seems like purposely ramming into the Secret Service vehicle transporting the First Lady would have been enough to keep him behind bars without bail until his trial Some highly questionable previous hidden actions by Sam are made public threatening to derail her brilliant career.
All the elements for another great book in this series are here. But at least for me the final chapters and the epilogue left me feeling this book fell just short of the mark. The questions of who had been causing so much murder and mayhem and the why seemed to have been solved a little too early. Their capture felt anti-climatic after the big build up. Even the story's epilogue where the author attempted to tie it all up in a neat reasonably happy bow while leaving teasers for the next book in this series felt like it lacked any real direction.
This book contains all the ingredients we’ve come to expect in a First Family series story. There’s mystery, danger, suspense, loving feels, expressed in the close relationships Sam has with her team of homicide detectives, her family and some sexy times between the still frisky First Couple. There’s even some side romances between Lt. “Archie” Archuletta the head of the MPD’s I.T. division (whom Sam once had a fling with) and Harper, a woman he had begun to date and fall for, who is found seriously injured, and sexually assaulted with no memory of who she is or what happened to her. There’s even a side story involving occasional series secondary character U.S. Marshall Jesse Best with one of his direct reports Memphis Rose and the unsolved disappearance of Jesse’s younger sister from their backyard when she was only seven years old. I’m assuming that will eventually lead to a new series featuring Jesse and Memphis, or at least a new book. Some old villains, members and former members of the MPD reemerge. Given his many arrests including multiple attempts upon Sam’s life, why Ramsey isn’t already in jail is a mystery. Sure seems like purposely ramming into the Secret Service vehicle transporting the First Lady would have been enough to keep him behind bars without bail until his trial Some highly questionable previous hidden actions by Sam are made public threatening to derail her brilliant career.
All the elements for another great book in this series are here. But at least for me the final chapters and the epilogue left me feeling this book fell just short of the mark. The questions of who had been causing so much murder and mayhem and the why seemed to have been solved a little too early. Their capture felt anti-climatic after the big build up. Even the story's epilogue where the author attempted to tie it all up in a neat reasonably happy bow while leaving teasers for the next book in this series felt like it lacked any real direction.
August 27, 2025
4.5⭐
In this thrilling addition to the First Family series, Sam Holland faces greater challenges than ever as she tries to balance her roles as Lieutenant of the homicide division, wife, mother, and First Lady of the United States.
As the story starts dramatically during the annual Easter egg roll on the White House lawn, where surrounded by friends, family, and her husband, President Nick Cappuano. An attempt is made on his life, leaving both reeling and terrified as they are immediately separated from their children and taken to safety.
And just as questions start to arise, as to who was behind this brazen attack, Sam is called to her day job, much to the annoyance of the Secret Service, who want to keep the entire First Family on lockdown.
However, a recent string of murders has occurred, and Sam is determined to be part of the investigation, especially since no one seems to understand the motive behind the killings.
And as the case unfolds, more attacks ensue, putting a target on Sam and Nick's backs. This results in one agent ending up in the hospital and Sam being placed on temporary lockdown. Nevertheless, Nick advocates for her, and she soon returns to the job she loves, even as Nick, fearful for her safety, would prefer her to stay in the White House.
Yet, as the plot thickens, Sam begins to feel that she may have reached her breaking point with the department. This is especially true as it becomes evident that someone within the MPD is behind the recent murders, and they are intent on destroying the Holland Cappuano name by any means necessary.
And with the perfect blend of spice, sweet moments, humour, drama, danger, and thrills, State of Retribution was an enjoyable addition to the series. I would highly recommend it to all.
In this thrilling addition to the First Family series, Sam Holland faces greater challenges than ever as she tries to balance her roles as Lieutenant of the homicide division, wife, mother, and First Lady of the United States.
As the story starts dramatically during the annual Easter egg roll on the White House lawn, where surrounded by friends, family, and her husband, President Nick Cappuano. An attempt is made on his life, leaving both reeling and terrified as they are immediately separated from their children and taken to safety.
And just as questions start to arise, as to who was behind this brazen attack, Sam is called to her day job, much to the annoyance of the Secret Service, who want to keep the entire First Family on lockdown.
However, a recent string of murders has occurred, and Sam is determined to be part of the investigation, especially since no one seems to understand the motive behind the killings.
And as the case unfolds, more attacks ensue, putting a target on Sam and Nick's backs. This results in one agent ending up in the hospital and Sam being placed on temporary lockdown. Nevertheless, Nick advocates for her, and she soon returns to the job she loves, even as Nick, fearful for her safety, would prefer her to stay in the White House.
Yet, as the plot thickens, Sam begins to feel that she may have reached her breaking point with the department. This is especially true as it becomes evident that someone within the MPD is behind the recent murders, and they are intent on destroying the Holland Cappuano name by any means necessary.
And with the perfect blend of spice, sweet moments, humour, drama, danger, and thrills, State of Retribution was an enjoyable addition to the series. I would highly recommend it to all.
July 19, 2025
Stayed up most of the night and just finished State of Retribution! All I can say is WOW! Another winner by the incomparable mastermind, Marie Force! Thank you for sharing your amazing talent with us, Marie!
This book has jaw dropping twists and turns, edge of your seat excitement & suspense, as well as her trademark humor.
To see Sam & Nick maneuver through the gut wrenching drama around them with their trademark solidarity is heartwarming. We see them grow stronger in their bond as they question what’s happening to them and their paths, ultimately leaning on each other.
Sam’s friends take friendship and solidarity to a new level which put tears in my eyes. The bond she shares with her coworkers and fellow officers shines through in this latest installment of Ms. Force’s popular First Family Series.
We also get to see more of Archie and Jesse Best in this book! It’s a treat to glimpse into the lives of these peripheral characters! Watching Archie’s softer side unfold was wonderful. We finally get insight into the in why Jesse is so intense!
Reading this, felt like visiting old friends! I can’t wait til December to find out how the cliffhanger is resolved!
Thank you, again, Marie Force!
This book has jaw dropping twists and turns, edge of your seat excitement & suspense, as well as her trademark humor.
To see Sam & Nick maneuver through the gut wrenching drama around them with their trademark solidarity is heartwarming. We see them grow stronger in their bond as they question what’s happening to them and their paths, ultimately leaning on each other.
Sam’s friends take friendship and solidarity to a new level which put tears in my eyes. The bond she shares with her coworkers and fellow officers shines through in this latest installment of Ms. Force’s popular First Family Series.
We also get to see more of Archie and Jesse Best in this book! It’s a treat to glimpse into the lives of these peripheral characters! Watching Archie’s softer side unfold was wonderful. We finally get insight into the in why Jesse is so intense!
Reading this, felt like visiting old friends! I can’t wait til December to find out how the cliffhanger is resolved!
Thank you, again, Marie Force!
July 27, 2025
Marie Force’s First Family Series
I’ve absolutely loved every book in Marie Force’s First Family series! From the very first page, this series draws you in with a perfect mix of suspense, crime, and romance—a combination that Marie Force does so well. The characters feel like old friends, especially the members of the First Family and their incredible circle of coworkers and friends. Each storyline is compelling and emotional, with just the right amount of action and intrigue to keep you turning the pages late into the night.
I’ve come to really care about this cast of characters, and I’m always excited to see what happens next in their lives—both professionally and personally. The blend of political drama, personal relationships, and high-stakes situations makes this series unforgettable.
Please keep them coming, Marie! I’m eagerly looking forward to the next book and more time with this wonderful fictional family. If you’re a fan of smart romantic suspense with heart, this series is a must.
I’ve absolutely loved every book in Marie Force’s First Family series! From the very first page, this series draws you in with a perfect mix of suspense, crime, and romance—a combination that Marie Force does so well. The characters feel like old friends, especially the members of the First Family and their incredible circle of coworkers and friends. Each storyline is compelling and emotional, with just the right amount of action and intrigue to keep you turning the pages late into the night.
I’ve come to really care about this cast of characters, and I’m always excited to see what happens next in their lives—both professionally and personally. The blend of political drama, personal relationships, and high-stakes situations makes this series unforgettable.
Please keep them coming, Marie! I’m eagerly looking forward to the next book and more time with this wonderful fictional family. If you’re a fan of smart romantic suspense with heart, this series is a must.
August 26, 2025
Another really good story.
Life is anything but easy for the Cappuano family as they deal with constant conflict. Sam is caught up in the investigation of multiple murders which seem unrelated but soon the shocking truth is revealed and once again Sam’s past comes back to haunt her. It is amazing how she copes under the pressure of public scrutiny and opinions but her team of co-workers have her back at all times. The author has created one tough cookie with this character who has a heart of gold and a backbone of steel, although she does have flaws - but that just makes her believable. Fall in love with Nick yet again as he deals with politics and the effect his role as President has on his family. The side characters in this ongoing story are fantastic and once again there are chapters written from their POV which helps to understand events as they unfold. Now we just have to wait for the next instalment in this series for some closure after the cliffhanger left in this one. I felt there was a bit of repetition throughout this book and it didn’t have the page turning effect as other books in the series, hence only 4 stars this time, but still looking forward to book 10.
Life is anything but easy for the Cappuano family as they deal with constant conflict. Sam is caught up in the investigation of multiple murders which seem unrelated but soon the shocking truth is revealed and once again Sam’s past comes back to haunt her. It is amazing how she copes under the pressure of public scrutiny and opinions but her team of co-workers have her back at all times. The author has created one tough cookie with this character who has a heart of gold and a backbone of steel, although she does have flaws - but that just makes her believable. Fall in love with Nick yet again as he deals with politics and the effect his role as President has on his family. The side characters in this ongoing story are fantastic and once again there are chapters written from their POV which helps to understand events as they unfold. Now we just have to wait for the next instalment in this series for some closure after the cliffhanger left in this one. I felt there was a bit of repetition throughout this book and it didn’t have the page turning effect as other books in the series, hence only 4 stars this time, but still looking forward to book 10.
July 26, 2025
Marie's writing is phenomenal!!! First Family Series gets better in every book.
For mystery lovers, I highly recommend this series where the cases are not what it seems and whenever you think you have it figured out, you are very surprise in the end. Fast paced book with so many twist and turns. If you think State of Alert was a page turner, State of Retribution is unbelievable. Scotty was hysterical when he saw his parent kissing. Just like Sam and Nick, I cannot wait when he becomes a teenager with a crush. And the littles are so adorable. Glad to see Archie in a relationship even though what happened to her was tough. I love that Vernon can calm Sam done and she trust both Vernon and Jimmy. Hoping to learn more about their families in the next books. Please keep them coming. Thank you for such a great series.
Thank you Marie Force for bringing us the best series EVER.
For mystery lovers, I highly recommend this series where the cases are not what it seems and whenever you think you have it figured out, you are very surprise in the end. Fast paced book with so many twist and turns. If you think State of Alert was a page turner, State of Retribution is unbelievable. Scotty was hysterical when he saw his parent kissing. Just like Sam and Nick, I cannot wait when he becomes a teenager with a crush. And the littles are so adorable. Glad to see Archie in a relationship even though what happened to her was tough. I love that Vernon can calm Sam done and she trust both Vernon and Jimmy. Hoping to learn more about their families in the next books. Please keep them coming. Thank you for such a great series.
Thank you Marie Force for bringing us the best series EVER.
August 4, 2025
Marie Force continues to amaze
Every time I begin a Marie Force book, I know that I will be satisfied. No other writer draws me in so completely with such well-written characters.
Sam and Nick have become such an amazing first couple. How do they continue to keep all the balls in the air, while still making time for the family and one another?
There are times that other people push so hard that I cannot imagine Sam continuing her career but she gets back up and keeps going. This book is definitely a testament to that. So much pressure, so many people trying to get rid of her. But she's so good at the job... That's why certain people are jealous and blame her for their shortcomings.
Marie, thank you, once again, for sharing these stories with us. You are incredibly talented!
Every time I begin a Marie Force book, I know that I will be satisfied. No other writer draws me in so completely with such well-written characters.
Sam and Nick have become such an amazing first couple. How do they continue to keep all the balls in the air, while still making time for the family and one another?
There are times that other people push so hard that I cannot imagine Sam continuing her career but she gets back up and keeps going. This book is definitely a testament to that. So much pressure, so many people trying to get rid of her. But she's so good at the job... That's why certain people are jealous and blame her for their shortcomings.
Marie, thank you, once again, for sharing these stories with us. You are incredibly talented!
July 28, 2025
We are back in the White House!!!! I don’t know how Marie does it but withy every story she just pulls you in and these books you just don’t want to put down. Sam & Nick have so many challenges in this one and I just love seeing everyone surround them with there support. This series just gets better with every book and I gotta say that the relationship between Sam & Uncle Joe is my fav and makes you feel like Skip is still in the house. Don’t want to give too much away but this one is not to be missed. Its rare for a series to make you feel at the end of each book that you just want to go back to the beginning and read there story unfold all over again think this is one of my most re-read series and there is no doubt that is going to continue – roll on December!!!!
July 30, 2025
There are drones over the lawn of the White House while the Easter Egg hunt is going on. Sam and Nick and their families are evacuated by Secret Service. But no one knows who is behind it.
At the same time several new homicide victims are found having been killed after a similar pattern and then there is Harlow, Archie’s friend who has been kidnapped and raped. Sam and her team can’t find a lead until someone has an outraging idea … and then more attacks on Sam happen.
Okay, this story was definitely over the top and I still loved it. I just love Sam and Nick and the family and group of friends. With the epiloge I was slightly scared that this might be the last book of the series but luckily/annoyingly there was another cliff hanger.
At the same time several new homicide victims are found having been killed after a similar pattern and then there is Harlow, Archie’s friend who has been kidnapped and raped. Sam and her team can’t find a lead until someone has an outraging idea … and then more attacks on Sam happen.
Okay, this story was definitely over the top and I still loved it. I just love Sam and Nick and the family and group of friends. With the epiloge I was slightly scared that this might be the last book of the series but luckily/annoyingly there was another cliff hanger.
August 11, 2025
The detective portions of the story and some of the presidential intrigue is good but the explicit nature of some scenes a bit over the top.
Sam Holland -Detective & First Lady is again battling forces within her dept. More of the same men seeking revenge for her success in solving high profile cases. Everyone in her sphere seems to adore her but there is a faction of corrupt cops (each with their own agenda) looking to take her down. This seems prolific throughout this series and each few books, another corrupt cop is unmasked.
Still not convinced that it would be plausible for the First Lady to work as a DC detective and why so much time/taxpayer money would be allotted to this but it is fiction after all.
Sam Holland -Detective & First Lady is again battling forces within her dept. More of the same men seeking revenge for her success in solving high profile cases. Everyone in her sphere seems to adore her but there is a faction of corrupt cops (each with their own agenda) looking to take her down. This seems prolific throughout this series and each few books, another corrupt cop is unmasked.
Still not convinced that it would be plausible for the First Lady to work as a DC detective and why so much time/taxpayer money would be allotted to this but it is fiction after all.
August 13, 2025
Sam and the family is enjoying egg hunt on the lawn when all of a sudden they are whisk away by secret service in the lower part of the White House. We find out that someone sent drones headed to the White House armed with ammunition. As with this series Sam begins to work on a new case where someone is hitting unexpected individuals at the back of their head and killing them. While Sam and her team are working on this the Feds/secret service still trying to find out who sent the drone. As per usual we get the inner dialog of some of her familiar characters and some new ones who shows up on the scene. No recent book will be nothing without our Littles Alden and Aubrey and of course Scotty.
July 26, 2025
it amazes me the crimes the author comes up with for these awesome books.
Sam is at it again with her squad. But chasing bad guys becomes very personal in this story. It is time to truly clean house at the MPD.
I really enjoy this series and always look forward to new books in it. I will say that there is a bit of squeemishness (word) with what I think is too much adulation of Sam in this one. A couple of typos on a character name of Mikah/Micha? It swapped back and forth. The editing is usually meticulous in Ms. Force’s books. But that is my pickiness.
It almost felt like the author is trying to end this series though.
Sam is at it again with her squad. But chasing bad guys becomes very personal in this story. It is time to truly clean house at the MPD.
I really enjoy this series and always look forward to new books in it. I will say that there is a bit of squeemishness (word) with what I think is too much adulation of Sam in this one. A couple of typos on a character name of Mikah/Micha? It swapped back and forth. The editing is usually meticulous in Ms. Force’s books. But that is my pickiness.
It almost felt like the author is trying to end this series though.
July 26, 2025
4 MORE YEARS
The best series I have read since the Sisterhood series. You get so invested in the characters and their lives that you don't want this journey to end when Nick's presidency is over for his first term. You want him to go for a second term in order for the journey to continue with Sam the children all their extended family. Nick and Sam's fairytsle life is entertaining but to balance that we get to see the downside of Public Service and the effects that crime and mental illness has on family friends and society at large grounding the story line and making it relevant to todays challenges. So please, FOUR MORE YEARS!
The best series I have read since the Sisterhood series. You get so invested in the characters and their lives that you don't want this journey to end when Nick's presidency is over for his first term. You want him to go for a second term in order for the journey to continue with Sam the children all their extended family. Nick and Sam's fairytsle life is entertaining but to balance that we get to see the downside of Public Service and the effects that crime and mental illness has on family friends and society at large grounding the story line and making it relevant to todays challenges. So please, FOUR MORE YEARS!
July 27, 2025
Unfortunately
I love this series but now that I can no longer get it with my kindle unlimited I will no longer be reading it.I bought this one just to let the,author know,how absolutely annoying it is to follow a series and now have to pay for it. I pay for kindle unlimited which is pretty much all indie authors and without us reading your stories and leaving great reviews how many people would buy your stories?? your not the first I've dropped unfortunately I've moved states and my library doesn't carry your books .so disappointed you could of just finished the series ,then started a new,one,we,would have to pay for at least we wouldn't be blindsided!
I love this series but now that I can no longer get it with my kindle unlimited I will no longer be reading it.I bought this one just to let the,author know,how absolutely annoying it is to follow a series and now have to pay for it. I pay for kindle unlimited which is pretty much all indie authors and without us reading your stories and leaving great reviews how many people would buy your stories?? your not the first I've dropped unfortunately I've moved states and my library doesn't carry your books .so disappointed you could of just finished the series ,then started a new,one,we,would have to pay for at least we wouldn't be blindsided!
July 28, 2025
Another roller coaster of a ride with the First Family, the Secret Service, the FBI and the police. Sam certainly has a roller coaster and she goes from hero to zero and then back in position to the top. Her family is adorable, Nick works away in the background as usual. The crimes were widespread and it takes Vernon SS to see a pattern that sets things rolling. I enjoyed this as I do all these books. It gets a bit cheesy in the way Sam talks at times. A little over use of it marked the book down for me. A little goes a long way, over use it and it loses its shine. Dedicated to the series though!
August 1, 2025
One of Her Best
This series just gets better and better. Every book keeps the reader wanting more — immediately! The characters and their connections get stronger, the plots more thrilling, and the twists always fulfilling. The combination of political thriller, police procedural, family drama and romance are perfectly packed into these pages.. I’ve already ordered Book 1
.
NOTE: For maximum enjoyment, read the books in sequence, starting with The Fatal Series (the first half of Sam and Nick’s story before The First Family Series continues their journey together).enjoy . (You can thank me later.)
This series just gets better and better. Every book keeps the reader wanting more — immediately! The characters and their connections get stronger, the plots more thrilling, and the twists always fulfilling. The combination of political thriller, police procedural, family drama and romance are perfectly packed into these pages.. I’ve already ordered Book 1
.
NOTE: For maximum enjoyment, read the books in sequence, starting with The Fatal Series (the first half of Sam and Nick’s story before The First Family Series continues their journey together).enjoy . (You can thank me later.)
August 1, 2025
I couldn’t wait to listen to State of Retribution and it was another edge of your seat listen and a fabulous addition to the series.
I was so invested in this audiobook and the story that Ms. Force wove, that I listened to it in almost one sitting.
Eva Kaminsky did a good job bringing the story to life for me and her voice is easy to listen to as she narrates. I do think that these stories could benefit from a male narrator performing the male characters, but then that is just my opinion.
There were numerous twists and turns, and I cannot wait to see what happens next with the First Family, their family and friends.
I was so invested in this audiobook and the story that Ms. Force wove, that I listened to it in almost one sitting.
Eva Kaminsky did a good job bringing the story to life for me and her voice is easy to listen to as she narrates. I do think that these stories could benefit from a male narrator performing the male characters, but then that is just my opinion.
There were numerous twists and turns, and I cannot wait to see what happens next with the First Family, their family and friends.
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