Undercover Dreamer

by Debbie Macomber

Having recently moved to Portland, Meggie O'Halloran falls for her new neighbor Quinn Donnelley, who is an undercover detective, and she doubts she can keep her feelings a secret for long.

Genres: Romance

231 pages, Library Binding

First published April 1, 1984

About the author

Debbie Macomber is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers with more than 200 million copies of her books in print worldwide. In her novels, Macomber brings to life compelling relationships that embrace family and enduring friendships, uplifting her readers with stories of connection and hope. Macomber’s novels have spent over 1,000 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Fifteen of these novels hit the number one spot.

In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.

Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.

She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.

Reviews

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy read and believable characters. Finished in two sittings. This is actually the first Debbie Macomber novel I’ve read and looking forward to the next one.

[ABookAddictHere]

Bought 11-26-25

[Trinity · Rating 1 out of 5]

I must say that I was not at all a fan of Quinn. I feel he has no redeeming qualities (I’m not even sure how Meghie can love him). He hates his daughter, gets mad at Meggie every other page. And when he’s not mad at her, he’s kissing her. And towards the end of the book he claims to love her and she him, but they know practically nothing about each other, because the only thing they ever do is kiss. So their relationship comes across as more lust than love. Idk, this is the first book I’ve read by Debbie, so I might try another one to see, but this one was unfortunately not for me.

[Tricia Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was very predictable, it wasn’t my favorite of Debbie macomber book.
I did enjoy the faith based part of the book. It proves that having faith in God will get you through anything. And that sharing your faith with others will bring them closer to God.

[Helen Kreitzer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christian romance novel. interesting but simplistic

I finished the novel, however, I would be hesitant to recommend as the story line was simplistic and predictable - probably ok for late teens.

[Karen Pawelko · Rating 4 out of 5]

Through the whole book I never cared much for Quinn and how he treated Jill. Had to read to the end to find out why and I still didn't change my mind about him.

[Marie Buccellato · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy read story

[Cherie Krueger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good Story. Some mystery. Easy read.

[Phyllis M. Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read all in one sitting since...well, it was THAT good! I LOVE DEBBIE MACOMBER!

[Harlequin Books]

Wholesome Romance, Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance

[Carol Rockenstein · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very easy read. Good if you want a short story. Characters have a real life feel. Decent storyline. I was able to finish in one day. Would recommend

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romance and a mystery. perfect

[Diana · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meggie O'Halloran feels trapped in living with her widowed father and having the same relationship with Sam, a man she doesn't love. She moves to Portland, Oregon to a new job and a new life. Her next door neighbor, Quinn Donnelley, is an undercover detective and a widower. Right after she moves, Meggie begins receiving obscene phone calls that are very disturbing to her. Of course, Quinn is going to protect her from these calls. Quinn has a daughter, Jill, and does not have a good relationship with her. Meggie instantly bonds with Jill and is out to fix the relationship between Quinn and Jill. Isn't this all just a little too neat???
I have read several books by Debbie Macomber and this was the most simplistic and could be labeled a typical romance novel. Would I read it again??? NO.

[Susan Earle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This re-issue of one of Debbie Macomber's earlier publications was a real treat. "A Vintage Debbie Macomber novel" is marketing genius! Well done. I'll look forward to more of these. Oh, and Large Print editions THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!

[Tricia Zahner · Rating 2 out of 5]

After reading the excellent Jane Austen's "Persuasion", and LMMontgomery's "The Blue Castle" this one fell really flat. The lead male was almost abusive in how he talked/treated the heroine, and she wasn't very strong. Sorry, but I wouldn't recommend.

[Virma · Rating 2 out of 5]

Simple story. A bit of a twist for Author Debbie Macomber but it was a short read so I was glad I did not spend too much time with this one.

[Diana H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

An old title romance from a Christian perspective.
A great read.

[Pamela Francis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the way this story was a strong show of faith and how to deal with those that don't have the faith!!

[Sue Klasing · Rating 3 out of 5]

Light reading, at times a bit monotonous but a happy ending.

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not my favorite, but I am trying another by D. Macomber to see if I like another story better!

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was in a mood for a nice easy read. This was definitely it.

[Cindy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Just a bit too predictable.