Marilyn K Blair
Clean, Contemporary, Faith-filled Fiction
Frank 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.
The ACFW Carol Award is a prestigious national literary award presented by the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) organization.
The award recognizes outstanding Christian fiction published in the previous calendar year.
Before I Go is one of three 2026 finalists for Contemporary Fiction, and the only finalist in that category that is published independently. The winner will be announced at the end of August.
What people are saying . . .
Before I Go is a finalist for the 2026 ACFW Carol Award for Contemporary fiction. The Carol Awards are premier literary honors recognizing the best Christian fiction published in the previous calendar year.
Before 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 telling a story, but for making you feel a part of the story. You’ll feel the highs and lows, the ins and outs of life, and you'll 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 Douglas
Comedian, Inspirational Speaker,
Author of Growth Spurts & Growin’ Pains
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.
Keven Raye
Former Maine Senate President
Eastport native, and fourth generation co-owner of Raye's Mustard Mill
Before 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 Fisher
Pastor, Delaware Valley Christian Church
Marilyn 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 Weber
Lancaster Christian Writers
www.LancasterChristianWriters.org
