FAQ: Mara Purl's 'When Hearts Heal' Book Release and Healing Themes

What is the main theme of Mara Purl’s new book ‘When Hearts Heal’?

The book explores romantic reconciliation between a couple whose relationship heats up and faces challenges, while also depicting community healing between long-standing enemies in the fictional town of Milford-Haven who have been divided by build versus no-build stances.

Why does the author believe this theme is significant in today’s context?

Mara Purl states that people are tired of feeling divided and are looking for higher ground rather than just common ground, noting a current trend toward healing that she’s observed through her research of small coastal towns.

When is the ebook available for free and where can readers get it?

The ebook will be free for three days on October 9, 10, and 11, 2025, and will also be available through Kindle Unlimited for members to read for free.

Where is the live performance event taking place and who is involved?

On October 12, 2025, Purl and colleagues will perform scenes at Coalesce Bookstore in Morro Bay, California, featuring authors Anne R. Allen, Rolynn Anderson, Tony Piazza, and professional actors Ilona Stone and Chester Perryess.

What makes the Milford-Haven series particularly notable?

The series began as a hit BBC radio drama with 4.5 million UK listeners and became a multi-award winning book series with 17 million US followers, having won more than 75 book awards total.

How does the fictional town’s healing parallel the romantic storyline?

Just as the couple reconciles through deeper understanding and romantic getaways to locations like Big Sur, the town’s leaders overcome their divisions through a shocking personal revelation that leads to compromise and healing of their community.

What settings are featured in ‘When Hearts Heal’?

The story is set against California’s iconically beautiful locations including Avila Beach, Esalen, Post Ranch Inn, and Big Sur, with the overall series set in California’s scenic Central Coast.

Who are the main characters in the romantic storyline?

The story follows a couple whose paths cross in their teen years and ignite in adulthood, facing family and business community scrutiny, devastating arguments, and ultimately reconciliation through romantic getaways and deeper understanding.