Where the Forest Meets the River: A Novel (The Dalton Novels)

Set in the small town of Dalton, Maine, this novel follows several interconnected lives five years after Bridget Theroux's death. Nate raises their daughter Sophie with intention while navigating tension with Bridget's mother, Annette, who remains consumed by grief. Greg Fortin returns home after his first year of college to work at the family hardware store, struggling with how to tell his family the truth about who he is. Rose, whose abusive ex Tommy disappeared years ago, finds herself drawn to Nate through their children's playdates, creating an uncertain space between friendship and something deeper. Meanwhile, Trudy and Bev's long marriage is tested when Trudy's husband Richard suffers a heart attack, forcing Trudy to confront years of guilt about their empty relationship. The novel explores how the residents of Dalton navigate grief, identity, family obligation, and unexpected connection.