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That Special Woman! #28
Just Married
Former mercenary Zane Ackerman wants a family. In particular, he wants a child who’ll be his legacy—and his heir. That’s because his upcoming mission might be his last, and it’s made him all too aware of his own mortality. Architect Lesley Walker wants a family, too. She craves a baby of her own. So Zane suggests a marriage of convenience to give them both what they want. But given the intense attraction they feel, this arrangement is becoming less convenient all the time!
Previously published.
Previously published.
217 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1996
377 people are currently reading
534 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Macomber
917 books20.7k followersDebbie 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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
March 21, 2024
A beautiful love story
When Zane hired Leslue to help with the designs on his grandparents home. She fell in love with the house the minute she walked in. She felt like this was where she should be.
Zane had bought the house from the previous owners. When his parents divorced, his mother took him away from his father and his grandparents. This was the place he had great memories.
He was injured in the service and was also a mercenary.
He was attracted to Leslie but didn't want to share his feelings for her. She wanted children, marriage, and forever.
He could give her a child and marriage, but not forever.
He had a mission to revenge the death of two of his closest friends, who were murderd by a terrorist, Schuyler.
He didn't tell Leslie what his plans were. Carl, his friend, an ex-serviceman, knew what he was planning. He was against it. He knew it would be a suicide attack.
Carl had his own problems with Candy. She owned the feed store in town. They fought like cats and dogs. They both had feelings for each other. But both were stubborn.
Have to read another great story by Debbie Macomber to see how it ends. Loved this book.
When Zane hired Leslue to help with the designs on his grandparents home. She fell in love with the house the minute she walked in. She felt like this was where she should be.
Zane had bought the house from the previous owners. When his parents divorced, his mother took him away from his father and his grandparents. This was the place he had great memories.
He was injured in the service and was also a mercenary.
He was attracted to Leslie but didn't want to share his feelings for her. She wanted children, marriage, and forever.
He could give her a child and marriage, but not forever.
He had a mission to revenge the death of two of his closest friends, who were murderd by a terrorist, Schuyler.
He didn't tell Leslie what his plans were. Carl, his friend, an ex-serviceman, knew what he was planning. He was against it. He knew it would be a suicide attack.
Carl had his own problems with Candy. She owned the feed store in town. They fought like cats and dogs. They both had feelings for each other. But both were stubborn.
Have to read another great story by Debbie Macomber to see how it ends. Loved this book.
July 26, 2023
2,75 ⭐️Jeszcze nigdy nie czytałam książki, której akcja rozgrywałaby się w tak szybki sposób i to u dwójki głównych bohaterów. Wiele sytuacji wydawało mi się bardzo naciąganych. Ciągły brak dobrej komunikacji między bohaterami niesamowicie mnie irytował. Mam wrażenie, że oni wszyscy za mało ze sobą rozmawiali.
Ostatnie strony to w moim wypadku ciągle wywracanie oczami. Serio.
Dodatkowo trzeba wspomnieć, że opis zamieszczony na okładce zdradza za dużo informacji i momentami nie zgadza się z fabułą.
Plusami jest to, że książka jest lekka i szybko się ją czyta.
Ostatnie strony to w moim wypadku ciągle wywracanie oczami. Serio.
Dodatkowo trzeba wspomnieć, że opis zamieszczony na okładce zdradza za dużo informacji i momentami nie zgadza się z fabułą.
Plusami jest to, że książka jest lekka i szybko się ją czyta.
February 17, 2025
This heartwarming romance by Debbie Macomber combines passion, personal growth, and a touch of suspense to deliver a memorable love story. After a mission gone wrong, Zane returns to his hometown to reclaim his family’s ancestral home. Determined to restore the house to its former glory, he enlists the help of Lesley, an architect captivated by the house’s beauty and potential. But their shared passion for the house quickly turns into something much deeper.
Zane and Lesley’s connection is undeniable, and their mutual desire for family brings them together in a marriage of convenience. Zane wants an heir, and Lesley longs for a child of her own. But their budding relationship is tested when Zane keeps a dangerous secret—another mission he must complete, one that might mean he won’t come back.
The romance between Zane and Lesley is heartfelt and filled with passionate, emotional moments. Both characters are strong and well-drawn, and their journey toward love is both compelling and satisfying. Adding to the story is a delightful secondary romance between Zane’s best friend and a local store owner, which is nearly as engaging as the main love story. Of course, both couples ultimately get their well-earned
Who doesn’t love a Debbie Macomber and her ability to create realistic, relatable characters and emotional, sensual storylines is undeniable. This was a perfect pick for romance lovers!
Thank you NetGalley for the ALC.
Zane and Lesley’s connection is undeniable, and their mutual desire for family brings them together in a marriage of convenience. Zane wants an heir, and Lesley longs for a child of her own. But their budding relationship is tested when Zane keeps a dangerous secret—another mission he must complete, one that might mean he won’t come back.
The romance between Zane and Lesley is heartfelt and filled with passionate, emotional moments. Both characters are strong and well-drawn, and their journey toward love is both compelling and satisfying. Adding to the story is a delightful secondary romance between Zane’s best friend and a local store owner, which is nearly as engaging as the main love story. Of course, both couples ultimately get their well-earned
Who doesn’t love a Debbie Macomber and her ability to create realistic, relatable characters and emotional, sensual storylines is undeniable. This was a perfect pick for romance lovers!
Thank you NetGalley for the ALC.
March 8, 2025
Let me preface this by saying, I usually love Debbie Macomber’s stories. I did not connect with this book or these characters. I did not realize there was a story that preceded this one, so it may have helped with the understanding of the character and overarching story. The book intertwined two love stories, Zane and Leslie and Carl and Candy. It seemed to tell the story of each of the couple with the equal focus. I was thrown by the description of wholesome as that is what I was expecting and that is not what I found this to be. I felt the character development was rushed, even lacking, and there was an unnecessary focus on their physical need for one another. All four of the main characters were whiny and emotional, making it difficult to enjoy their interactions. I also felt like the narrator heightened these painful interactions and emotional outbursts, so it was difficult to separate the disagreeable dialogue from the narrator’s representation of these interactions. This does not close me off to Debbie’s books, I just realized that this series is not for me.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
March 15, 2025
The story of friends and friendship that have the usual HEA by this author. Zane a mercenary on the mend realizes that the next mission will be his last. He wishes for a child to leave his legacy to. Renovating his family home he meets Leslie who feels the time is ticking away and she desperately wants a baby. When the two feel the sparks and realizes their want for a baby. Zane next logical step is to propose a marriage of convenience.
Carl lives in the huge house that Zane owns, friends and fellow mercenaries his last wish is to settle down. Life is too short and he is determined to live it to the fullest. Of course Candy at the local feed store is thorn in his side, but as the saying goes opposite do attract. And a one night stand isn’t enough but was enough to find Candy pregnant.
Sweet stories with the predictable storyline. The narrative was good, I only wished that there be a pause between chapters and maybe state Candy pause or Leslie. Sometimes it ran together and I thought it was the wrong character. Thank you #NetGalley for this ARC, all opinions expressed are my own. #JustMarried
Carl lives in the huge house that Zane owns, friends and fellow mercenaries his last wish is to settle down. Life is too short and he is determined to live it to the fullest. Of course Candy at the local feed store is thorn in his side, but as the saying goes opposite do attract. And a one night stand isn’t enough but was enough to find Candy pregnant.
Sweet stories with the predictable storyline. The narrative was good, I only wished that there be a pause between chapters and maybe state Candy pause or Leslie. Sometimes it ran together and I thought it was the wrong character. Thank you #NetGalley for this ARC, all opinions expressed are my own. #JustMarried
March 3, 2025
This audiobook contains two love stories that are intertwined.
One belonging to former mercenary soldier Zane Ackerman and architect Lesley Walker. Zane is a loner with a past and no goals of finding love or getting married. But when Lesley arrives at the mansion to assist with the restorations, he is smitten by her . But their path to happiness is abruptly stopped , leaving one heartbroken.
The other couple are secondary characters. Carl is a former military friend of Zane and Candy is the feed store owner. While one is adverse to relationships and getting married, the other is wanting all of it. Will Carl be able to open his heart and realize that Candy is the one for him?
All, in all, this was an entertaining audiobook. That said, this listener felt that she would have benefited from having read/listened to the previous story, since the main characters in this one, were introduced and had a story of their own on that previous story.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook by Netgalley and Harlequin Audio.The opinions expressed are solely my own.
One belonging to former mercenary soldier Zane Ackerman and architect Lesley Walker. Zane is a loner with a past and no goals of finding love or getting married. But when Lesley arrives at the mansion to assist with the restorations, he is smitten by her . But their path to happiness is abruptly stopped , leaving one heartbroken.
The other couple are secondary characters. Carl is a former military friend of Zane and Candy is the feed store owner. While one is adverse to relationships and getting married, the other is wanting all of it. Will Carl be able to open his heart and realize that Candy is the one for him?
All, in all, this was an entertaining audiobook. That said, this listener felt that she would have benefited from having read/listened to the previous story, since the main characters in this one, were introduced and had a story of their own on that previous story.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook by Netgalley and Harlequin Audio.The opinions expressed are solely my own.
March 5, 2025
Lesley is an architect. She was hired to update Zane's house. Even though he was disfigured, she was attracted to him and he felt the same. She wanted a child. He wanted an heir. He kept secrets - serious secrets from her. And they decided to go into a marriage of convenience. But she wanted more.
Candy runs the feed store, formerly managed by her father. It's a well run business and she doesn't need a man, but she wouldn't mind having one. Carl is attracted to her, but he wants only a casual, sexual relationship with her. Although they had one sexual event together, Candy says no more without a ring on her finger. Carl is more than dense and stubborn. The guys in this book have attitudes that certainly don't make me swoon over them. Some women might be OK with them.
How the two couples eventually work out their relationships is the point of the story. The sex is behind closed doors. The book can be ready by almost any reader.
I listened to the audio version of the book. The narrator was very good.
Candy runs the feed store, formerly managed by her father. It's a well run business and she doesn't need a man, but she wouldn't mind having one. Carl is attracted to her, but he wants only a casual, sexual relationship with her. Although they had one sexual event together, Candy says no more without a ring on her finger. Carl is more than dense and stubborn. The guys in this book have attitudes that certainly don't make me swoon over them. Some women might be OK with them.
How the two couples eventually work out their relationships is the point of the story. The sex is behind closed doors. The book can be ready by almost any reader.
I listened to the audio version of the book. The narrator was very good.
May 14, 2023
Zane Ackerman realises he wants to leave a legacy, and a heiguidance r.
He is irresistibly drawn to Leslie Walker an architect who is helping him restore his family home.
Marrying Leslie may be his last chance .
Leslie is craving a family of her own , and their passion will create a destiny for them both , if only Zane survives his last mission.
Carl another main character was hilarious, had no clue about love and romance, but so likeable, needing so much guidance, to put him on the right path , before losing the love of his life .
This book, was a quick short romance, that was hard to put down, finished it in two days, perfect for a weekend read.
It was exciting, romantic and hilarious at times, men not knowing anything about women and romance.
It has a storyline that keeps you wondering what will happen next , just the right kind of suspense and romance.
A delightful read ♡
He is irresistibly drawn to Leslie Walker an architect who is helping him restore his family home.
Marrying Leslie may be his last chance .
Leslie is craving a family of her own , and their passion will create a destiny for them both , if only Zane survives his last mission.
Carl another main character was hilarious, had no clue about love and romance, but so likeable, needing so much guidance, to put him on the right path , before losing the love of his life .
This book, was a quick short romance, that was hard to put down, finished it in two days, perfect for a weekend read.
It was exciting, romantic and hilarious at times, men not knowing anything about women and romance.
It has a storyline that keeps you wondering what will happen next , just the right kind of suspense and romance.
A delightful read ♡
March 8, 2025
Cute story of love for convenience and falling in love and admitting the love for one another. She wants a child Zane wants a legacy. He was harmed by a terrorist where friends died and he survived with scars. Leslie becomes pregnant . Zane gets a letter with the location of Skylar who he goes after. For 6 months Leslie is told Zane died. He comes back with no scars but the limp. They reunite. Alongside the backdrop of the love story between confirmed bachelor Carl and his love for Candy. She becomes pregnant after a one time frenzy and then won’t let Carl in her bed again. He eventually proposes correctly and they will get married. Leslie and Candy are both pregnant and due within a week of each other. Will there be a sequel?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2020
I have enjoyed several of Macomber's series so I thought this book would be a good story as well. I checked it out as an ebook and did not see it was an older book of hers and originally classified as a romance book or I probably would not have checked it out. The story line had such great potential, but the novel was way too focused on the four main character's sex drives. I was very disappointed and the only consolation is that the more recent series, like Rose Harbor series have much much better character development with strong characters who for the most part take a higher moral ground.
February 13, 2025
Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC for this audiobook. The narration was great.
In the past, I read a great deal of Debbie Macomber's books and I have always loved the way she develops her characters and their relationships. She is a master story teller in my opinion. This story stumbled me a little bit because their are two romances that are discussed and that take on lives of their own. Both new relationships where one man wanted marriage and a baby and another man who says that he doesn't but you can tell he does. Macomber's descriptions on their story drew me in and I could not wait to finish.. I am happy I was able to listen to this novel.
In the past, I read a great deal of Debbie Macomber's books and I have always loved the way she develops her characters and their relationships. She is a master story teller in my opinion. This story stumbled me a little bit because their are two romances that are discussed and that take on lives of their own. Both new relationships where one man wanted marriage and a baby and another man who says that he doesn't but you can tell he does. Macomber's descriptions on their story drew me in and I could not wait to finish.. I am happy I was able to listen to this novel.
March 21, 2025
I listened to this as an audiobook rather than reading it. The story was well done and the tale of two separate romances added to the plot. The characters came across as whiny in the story however. I am not sure if this was more of a result of the way the narrator portrayed them or if it was a result of the story. The narration of the two male characters also were irritating to listen to.
Once again, I enjoyed the story, but the telling of that story by the narrator really impacted my enjoyment.
Once again, I enjoyed the story, but the telling of that story by the narrator really impacted my enjoyment.
September 13, 2017
Although this was your typical Silhouette (same as Harlequin) romance and the ending was totally predictable, this one had a slightly different angle to it. The reader gets two stories in one!! The main story is about Zane and Lesley but it is intertwined with the romance of Zane's best friend Carl and a local girl who runs the feed store, Candy. It was an interesting concept and at times I was more interested in their story (Carl and Candy) then the main characters LOL.
March 4, 2025
***Four Stars***
It's been so long since I've read a Debbie Macomber but I don't remember them being like this. Maybe because I mostly read smuttier books now. I don't know. Maybe I feel differently about Harlequin novels now. Who knows.
Anyway, this book follows two couples and I enjoyed their stories. The book is quick paced and things just keep moving along. Sometimes I stumbled on which couple we were with for a second. In the end there was a HEA and I have no real complaints.
It's been so long since I've read a Debbie Macomber but I don't remember them being like this. Maybe because I mostly read smuttier books now. I don't know. Maybe I feel differently about Harlequin novels now. Who knows.
Anyway, this book follows two couples and I enjoyed their stories. The book is quick paced and things just keep moving along. Sometimes I stumbled on which couple we were with for a second. In the end there was a HEA and I have no real complaints.
February 4, 2026
If I didn't already know that Debbie Macomber was the author and someone told me she wrote it, I wouldn't have believed them. I've been reading Debbie's books for years and this one is the most bizarre. The two males weren't worth wasting the women's time, yet there was constant love-hate struggle throughout the book. I listened to the audio version and the narrator spoke Carl's character like a robot. Thank goodness it didn't have many chapters.
March 24, 2025
Just Married by Debbie Macomber, read by Nicole Wood. This story felt rushed in their connections to each other. Definitely all about the physical draw. Two sets of couples Zane and Lesley, Carl and Candy coming together. Wasn’t my favorite of her books for sure. This is an older released book. I definitely am a fan of her newer work. Thank you to #NetGalley
May 17, 2025
I disliked this audio book so much I really struggled to finish it. I don’t think it was the story as much as the narration of it. I’m glad this is the only Debbie Macomber book she narrates. Sorry I can’t even come up with anything else to say the audio portion took over any and all thoughts I have of this title.
February 10, 2017
This was more like 2.5⭐ but I didn't round up because of the ending. I had a hard time following the action of this story from time to time. I enjoyed both of the storylines, but the transition between the two was difficult to follow at times.
December 11, 2017
Great read
This one book I had not read of Debbie's and when it was on sale at a good price I just had to have it. So glad I did great love story with lots of suspence and laughs as well. Some great twists as well.
This one book I had not read of Debbie's and when it was on sale at a good price I just had to have it. So glad I did great love story with lots of suspence and laughs as well. Some great twists as well.
October 26, 2018
The ending felt rushed with Leslie and Zane, would have like secondary couples wedding instead. Found Carly frustrating as she did not communicate well about her relationship expectations which made me feel sorry for carl despite his attitude at times could clearly state what he wanted
June 23, 2021
2 stories in one book. I really enjoyed it. Happy endings are the best!! At one point I actually thought Zane was really dead.
One downside I'd say was, Zane came back and the END. I wanted to read a bit more after his return.
One downside I'd say was, Zane came back and the END. I wanted to read a bit more after his return.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2024
Actually 4 characters -the two main ones Leslie and Zane . She appeared to help Zane remodel his house -an instant attraction even though he was battle scarred . Slow burn and mystery involved as Zane felt compelled to avenge friend’s deaths .
November 6, 2024
Great love story of two couples. Both women pregnant at once within weeks of each other. Candy and Carl end up engaged and eventually marry.
We think Zane died on his mission to Egypt and then he comes back when we least expect it to surprise Lesley.
Almost finished with Debbie books!
We think Zane died on his mission to Egypt and then he comes back when we least expect it to surprise Lesley.
Almost finished with Debbie books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2025
Sweet and thought ridden
Carl was not the main character but he was strong ,caring and thoughtful! Behind the scenes being helpful and of course falling in love and proving disagreements can lead to a marriage of your dreams.
Carl was not the main character but he was strong ,caring and thoughtful! Behind the scenes being helpful and of course falling in love and proving disagreements can lead to a marriage of your dreams.
April 11, 2025
I love Debbie Macomber… but, I did not like this one. Characters were not developed well, it felt very choppy and it’s plot is very weird. It gets “spicy” in some spots and it doesn’t really fit in the whole plot.
April 11, 2018
Great series.
November 20, 2020
3.5 liked the secondary love story best
Read
February 20, 2021Always enjoy her books, simple, enjoyable, and fast reads.
July 18, 2021
One of Debbie's early writings. Not one of her best.
March 14, 2024
Just Married
Great story. So well written. Enjoyed having 5 main characters to focus on. Love and mystery all wrapped w in 1 story.
Great story. So well written. Enjoyed having 5 main characters to focus on. Love and mystery all wrapped w in 1 story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews