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Happily Never After
Things are looking up for Claire Hartley. After thwarting yet another attempted murder, she’s enjoying the quiet life as a dog mom to Rosie, girlfriend to grumpy filmmaker Luke, and planner of epic marriage proposals.
If she can manage to pull off this wildly elaborate Hollywood proposal, her dreams of creating bicoastal happily ever afters will finally come true. So what if her trauma-induced sleepwalking—and sleepsnacking—hasn’t gone away yet? That doesn’t mean anything, right? She’s fine. Everything is fine.
Except it’s not. There’s a teeny, tiny possibility that she didn’t put every member of the sinister, murdery organization behind bars. At least, that’s what Claire’s burned-down warehouse and a swimming pool full of blood lead her to believe.
The FBI isn’t turning up any leads, and when the threats escalate to target people she loves, Claire is forced to put on her amateur sleuth trench coat one last time.
The stakes have never been higher.
Can she turn the tables on the bad guys or will she—or someone incredibly close to her—be the final victim?
If she can manage to pull off this wildly elaborate Hollywood proposal, her dreams of creating bicoastal happily ever afters will finally come true. So what if her trauma-induced sleepwalking—and sleepsnacking—hasn’t gone away yet? That doesn’t mean anything, right? She’s fine. Everything is fine.
Except it’s not. There’s a teeny, tiny possibility that she didn’t put every member of the sinister, murdery organization behind bars. At least, that’s what Claire’s burned-down warehouse and a swimming pool full of blood lead her to believe.
The FBI isn’t turning up any leads, and when the threats escalate to target people she loves, Claire is forced to put on her amateur sleuth trench coat one last time.
The stakes have never been higher.
Can she turn the tables on the bad guys or will she—or someone incredibly close to her—be the final victim?
586 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2024
528 people are currently reading
763 people want to read
About the author
Madison Score
6 books632 followersMadison Score is the author of the Claire Hartley Accidental Mystery series (and the younger, weirder sister of Lucy Score.) She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, son, and perpetually-shedding corgi. For some reason her parents allowed her to get a degree in Creative Writing, which she now utilizes to craft stories with comedy, romance, and sometimes a hefty dose of crime.
When she’s not writing or chasing after her tornado of a toddler (seriously, how many times can he upend our rubber tree?) you can find her blatantly ignoring recipes in the kitchen, flailing her body around in the gym, or bingeing true crime podcasts, TV, and movies.
Follow her on Facebook and Instagram if you want to see an excess of poorly-photographed foods during her weekly Madison Tries It segment.
When she’s not writing or chasing after her tornado of a toddler (seriously, how many times can he upend our rubber tree?) you can find her blatantly ignoring recipes in the kitchen, flailing her body around in the gym, or bingeing true crime podcasts, TV, and movies.
Follow her on Facebook and Instagram if you want to see an excess of poorly-photographed foods during her weekly Madison Tries It segment.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
March 3, 2025
The ending of a series is always so bittersweet! I'm always so sad to say goodbye to the characters but Happily Never After was the perfect way to tie up the Claire Hartley Accidental Mystery series. This entire series has a blend of humour, romance and suspence that keeps your turning those pages dying to know whats going to happen next!
In this installment we follow Claire who is enjoying life as a dog mom to Rosie and as the girlfriend of grumpy filmmaker Luke. She’s landed a proposal the could launch her career to the next level! All is well...... except for these pesky trauma-induced sleepwalking episodes, and threats to herself and the people she loves most. Once again her and Luke try to expose the secret organization messing with their lives!
Overall a fun read and great ending to an enjoyable series!
Thank you Hambright PR for the gifted copy!
In this installment we follow Claire who is enjoying life as a dog mom to Rosie and as the girlfriend of grumpy filmmaker Luke. She’s landed a proposal the could launch her career to the next level! All is well...... except for these pesky trauma-induced sleepwalking episodes, and threats to herself and the people she loves most. Once again her and Luke try to expose the secret organization messing with their lives!
Overall a fun read and great ending to an enjoyable series!
Thank you Hambright PR for the gifted copy!
November 15, 2025
(a generous) 2.5. There was so much going on, and it did not move me at all. If I were hooked up to one of those heart rate machines, I'm sure it would have thought I was dead.
The plot was all over the place, and it annoyed me more than once how Claire was adamant to do some sleuthing and get involved when she'd almost died countless times in this book alone. Luke was right- she didn't seem to care whether she lived or died.
This could have benefited from being cut in half, I think. It was just so difficult to care about the plot or even the romance, which sucks because normally that's my favorite part. But I just couldn't bring myself to like any of these characters: Claire with the total disregard for her life and boyfriend, and Luke with his two-dimensional stoic air. I wouldn't be surprised if Luke was literally just a cardboard cutout.
There was too much going on and too little I cared for.
The plot was all over the place, and it annoyed me more than once how Claire was adamant to do some sleuthing and get involved when she'd almost died countless times in this book alone. Luke was right- she didn't seem to care whether she lived or died.
This could have benefited from being cut in half, I think. It was just so difficult to care about the plot or even the romance, which sucks because normally that's my favorite part. But I just couldn't bring myself to like any of these characters: Claire with the total disregard for her life and boyfriend, and Luke with his two-dimensional stoic air. I wouldn't be surprised if Luke was literally just a cardboard cutout.
There was too much going on and too little I cared for.
November 8, 2024
Proposal planner Claire always seems to have someone after her. Just when she thought she'd put the bad guys away for good, she starts getting signs that someone in the gang may still be out there. With the FBI not helping, it seems like Claire and her friends will have to take matters into their own hands again.
This was another entertaining installment from Madison Score. I love the characters in this series and am a little sad that it's over. There is a lot of action in this book and I feel it would be great on the big screen. While it is a little on the longer side (just under 600 pages), there is always something happening to keep you invested in the storyline. Now we wait to see what is next for the author - I am excited!
This was another entertaining installment from Madison Score. I love the characters in this series and am a little sad that it's over. There is a lot of action in this book and I feel it would be great on the big screen. While it is a little on the longer side (just under 600 pages), there is always something happening to keep you invested in the storyline. Now we wait to see what is next for the author - I am excited!
November 10, 2024
This is the final book of the Claire Hartley trilogy and it did not disappoint. I’m kind of sad this series is over but this was the perfect ending. This book had a mix of romance, suspense, drama and will have you on the edge of your seat. I absolutely loved Rosie, the corgi, she is so so adorable. As someone who loves animals, it made me so happy that she was so dedicated to saving the animal shelter that she cared so much about. This one had me laughing and I enjoyed the adventures of Claire and Luke’s relationship. I can’t wait to read more from Madison❤️
November 19, 2024
What a fantastic ending to this series. You have a complex group of characters, humor, murder, mystery, love, all wrapped in a great story. I can't wait to see what's next from Madison Score.
December 28, 2024
3/4 I’m going to have to come back and read it once I read the other books before it. I’m at 30%
July 31, 2025
good but…
You know when you go to a 3 hour movie that was good but would’ve been a lot better if it had been 1.5 hours? This is the book form.
You know when you go to a 3 hour movie that was good but would’ve been a lot better if it had been 1.5 hours? This is the book form.
November 15, 2024
Overall, a lot more chaotic than the first 2 books in the series. I found the ESA plot a bit confusing at times, and found there were slightly too many characters to focus on. But it was a nice way to end (I assume) the series and I will always enjoy being swept away in Claire Hartley's world of planning proposals while secretly hunting killers!
March 31, 2025
Much like book #2, I just couldn’t get into this one. I found myself being more annoyed with Claire and her antics and the whole premise was so far fetched. The multiple competing plots and holes in the timeline just made it hard to keep up with. I enjoyed the ending but still feel like all 3 of these books could have easily been shortened by at least 200 pages
June 6, 2025
This series had so much potential… For me it just didn’t have the depth I wish it would have.
November 9, 2024
Happily Never After - Madison Score
(Claire Hartley Accidental Mystery Book 3)
Thank you to @hambright_pr and @madisonscore author for this gifted Ebook and ALC copy.
NARRATED BY: AMY HALL & MARCIO CATALANO
Narrator Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
They did a wonderful job bringing these characters to life.
My Review:
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Romantic Suspence
Pages: 586
Tropes:
✨Grumpy/Sunshine
✨Mystery Romance
✨Amateur Romance
✨Women Sleuths
This book is action packed and I was hooked in the first chapter. Claire was kidnapped and managed to escape. She refuses to change her lifestyle. The FBI (which her Father is part of) can’t seem to catch the perpetrator. Claire decides to be a sleuth herself. Her boyfriend, Luke, tries his best to keep her safe and puts all sorts of security measures in place.
She makes progress on identifying who her attacker works for and why. After more attempts things become very scary and more dangerous for her.
This book will have you biting your nails as it plays out! You’ll want to wrap Claire in a bulletproof vest and bubble wrap!
You’ll also fall in love with Rosie and Winston. Claire and Luke’s two sweet rescues.
I highly recommend this book and audiobook!!!
#booktok #bookstagram #books #booklover #bookrecommendations #bookstagrammer #bookish #bookworm #readersofinstagram #bookreview #bookaddict #bookcommunity #read #bibliophile #booksofinstagram #bookblogger #romanticsuspense #happilyneverafter #madisonscore
(Claire Hartley Accidental Mystery Book 3)
Thank you to @hambright_pr and @madisonscore author for this gifted Ebook and ALC copy.
NARRATED BY: AMY HALL & MARCIO CATALANO
Narrator Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
They did a wonderful job bringing these characters to life.
My Review:
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Romantic Suspence
Pages: 586
Tropes:
✨Grumpy/Sunshine
✨Mystery Romance
✨Amateur Romance
✨Women Sleuths
This book is action packed and I was hooked in the first chapter. Claire was kidnapped and managed to escape. She refuses to change her lifestyle. The FBI (which her Father is part of) can’t seem to catch the perpetrator. Claire decides to be a sleuth herself. Her boyfriend, Luke, tries his best to keep her safe and puts all sorts of security measures in place.
She makes progress on identifying who her attacker works for and why. After more attempts things become very scary and more dangerous for her.
This book will have you biting your nails as it plays out! You’ll want to wrap Claire in a bulletproof vest and bubble wrap!
You’ll also fall in love with Rosie and Winston. Claire and Luke’s two sweet rescues.
I highly recommend this book and audiobook!!!
#booktok #bookstagram #books #booklover #bookrecommendations #bookstagrammer #bookish #bookworm #readersofinstagram #bookreview #bookaddict #bookcommunity #read #bibliophile #booksofinstagram #bookblogger #romanticsuspense #happilyneverafter #madisonscore
December 12, 2024
ARC Review⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Thank you to the author Madison Score @madisonscore and @hambright_pr for the #gifted electronic ARC.
Madison Score has once again delivered a captivating installment in the Claire Hartley Accidental Mystery series with Happily Never After. As the third book in the series, it upholds all the elements that have made this series a five-star favorite for me.
This story strikes the perfect balance between humor, romance, and edge-of-your-seat mystery. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is electric, with just the right amount of tension and charm to keep you hooked. The heart-pounding mystery element is expertly woven into the narrative, making it impossible to put the book down.
Claire’s fierce female friendships add a layer of warmth and relatability to the story, showcasing the power of support and loyalty. And for romance lovers? There are swoon-worthy marriage proposals that will leave your heart melting.
Adding to the charm are the rescue dogs, whose antics bring so much joy and heart to the story. They’re a delightful touch that perfectly complements the suspense and intrigue.
If you’re looking for a series with humor, heart, and a healthy dose of mystery, Happily Never After (and the entire Claire Hartley series) is an absolute must-read. Madison Score has created something truly special here!
Quote:
"Claire, we talked about this. You can't buy a dog every time you have a bad day.”
Madison Score has once again delivered a captivating installment in the Claire Hartley Accidental Mystery series with Happily Never After. As the third book in the series, it upholds all the elements that have made this series a five-star favorite for me.
This story strikes the perfect balance between humor, romance, and edge-of-your-seat mystery. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is electric, with just the right amount of tension and charm to keep you hooked. The heart-pounding mystery element is expertly woven into the narrative, making it impossible to put the book down.
Claire’s fierce female friendships add a layer of warmth and relatability to the story, showcasing the power of support and loyalty. And for romance lovers? There are swoon-worthy marriage proposals that will leave your heart melting.
Adding to the charm are the rescue dogs, whose antics bring so much joy and heart to the story. They’re a delightful touch that perfectly complements the suspense and intrigue.
If you’re looking for a series with humor, heart, and a healthy dose of mystery, Happily Never After (and the entire Claire Hartley series) is an absolute must-read. Madison Score has created something truly special here!
Quote:
"Claire, we talked about this. You can't buy a dog every time you have a bad day.”
December 20, 2024
Madison Score nailed it again with “Happily Never After”, the grand finale of the Claire Hartley Accidental Mystery series! I’m bummed this trilogy is over, but wow, what a way to wrap things up. This book brings the perfect mix of romance, suspense, drama, and action that’ll keep you hooked from start to finish. Trust me, you’ll have a blast tagging along with Claire as she plans proposals by day and hunts killers by night.
Claire’s life is chaos as usual. Just when she thinks the bad guys are finally out of the picture, new signs pop up that someone from the gang is still lurking around. The FBI’s no help (of course), so it’s up to Claire and her friends to dive back into amateur sleuthing. Her boyfriend Luke is doing everything he can to keep her safe, but let’s be real, Claire’s not the type to sit back and let someone else take the lead.
I loved every second of this book. The banter, the twists, the adorable rescue dogs Winston and Rosie—everything about this series is just case closed, perfection. Watching Claire and Luke’s relationship grow throughout their crazy adventures was so fun, and I already miss these characters. Can’t wait to see what Madison Score comes up with next!
Thank you @madisonscore and @hambright_pr for the #gifted ebook ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Claire’s life is chaos as usual. Just when she thinks the bad guys are finally out of the picture, new signs pop up that someone from the gang is still lurking around. The FBI’s no help (of course), so it’s up to Claire and her friends to dive back into amateur sleuthing. Her boyfriend Luke is doing everything he can to keep her safe, but let’s be real, Claire’s not the type to sit back and let someone else take the lead.
I loved every second of this book. The banter, the twists, the adorable rescue dogs Winston and Rosie—everything about this series is just case closed, perfection. Watching Claire and Luke’s relationship grow throughout their crazy adventures was so fun, and I already miss these characters. Can’t wait to see what Madison Score comes up with next!
Thank you @madisonscore and @hambright_pr for the #gifted ebook ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 16, 2025
The Perfect Feel Good HEA!!!
What a GREAT ending to such an enjoyable Cozy Mystery series!! I’ve really enjoyed seeing the growth in this series, especially in Claire and in her relationship with Luke!! From book one it’s obvious that Claire has some issues from her past, but with all the trauma she goes through in this series it escalated. It was good to see her finally admit that she needed help with her anxiety, panic and PTSD. So many people think they have to be strong enough to manage on their own, but getting help doesn’t make you weak, it actually helps you feel more in control of your life. I thought that message was well handled in this series. Luke is AMAZING and is SO GOOD for Claire, and she is SO GOOD for him too!! Claire has fantastic friends and family who love her, but she gives her whole self to them and she has to learn balance and priorities between her job, family and friends, and most of all the man she loves.
I will say that I would have liked these books to be shorter and more of them, rather than three gigantic, over 600 page books. Between the pain in my hands from holding them and feeling like I’d never finish the book it got tiresome, but the plot never got dull and had good pacing. I really enjoyed the series and would definitely recommend it!!
What a GREAT ending to such an enjoyable Cozy Mystery series!! I’ve really enjoyed seeing the growth in this series, especially in Claire and in her relationship with Luke!! From book one it’s obvious that Claire has some issues from her past, but with all the trauma she goes through in this series it escalated. It was good to see her finally admit that she needed help with her anxiety, panic and PTSD. So many people think they have to be strong enough to manage on their own, but getting help doesn’t make you weak, it actually helps you feel more in control of your life. I thought that message was well handled in this series. Luke is AMAZING and is SO GOOD for Claire, and she is SO GOOD for him too!! Claire has fantastic friends and family who love her, but she gives her whole self to them and she has to learn balance and priorities between her job, family and friends, and most of all the man she loves.
I will say that I would have liked these books to be shorter and more of them, rather than three gigantic, over 600 page books. Between the pain in my hands from holding them and feeling like I’d never finish the book it got tiresome, but the plot never got dull and had good pacing. I really enjoyed the series and would definitely recommend it!!
November 15, 2024
Happily Never After is a book that has it all!
Grumpy/Sunshine
Romance
Mystery
&&
CUTEEE dogs!!
At 586 pages this book can be a little intimidating but don’t worry, it is packed with twists, turns, and humor! You are pulled in from the start - I am in love with Madison Score’s writing! Happily Never After is the perfect mix of romance and mystery.
Claire, animal lover and proposal planner is adjusting to life after being kidnapped by the ESA. Battling anxiety and sleepwalking, she is determined to start over and work hard to achieve her goals. Thankfully, she has Luke, her grumpy filmmaker boyfriend. These two really must work together with everything that’s thrown at them. Their relationship felt very realistic, which was refreshing. Then there’s the pups, Rosie and Winston, they were absolutely adorable!
When Claire finds herself once again in danger, she is forced to solve the mystery on her own with no help from the FBI. Score did an amazing job wrapping up this series! This trilogy is so much fun and keeps you turning the pages. After everything Claire has been through, one question remains…. Will she finally get her very own Happily EVER after???
Huge thanks to Madison Score and Hambright PR for allowing me to read an ARC of Happily Never Ever!!
Grumpy/Sunshine
Romance
Mystery
&&
CUTEEE dogs!!
At 586 pages this book can be a little intimidating but don’t worry, it is packed with twists, turns, and humor! You are pulled in from the start - I am in love with Madison Score’s writing! Happily Never After is the perfect mix of romance and mystery.
Claire, animal lover and proposal planner is adjusting to life after being kidnapped by the ESA. Battling anxiety and sleepwalking, she is determined to start over and work hard to achieve her goals. Thankfully, she has Luke, her grumpy filmmaker boyfriend. These two really must work together with everything that’s thrown at them. Their relationship felt very realistic, which was refreshing. Then there’s the pups, Rosie and Winston, they were absolutely adorable!
When Claire finds herself once again in danger, she is forced to solve the mystery on her own with no help from the FBI. Score did an amazing job wrapping up this series! This trilogy is so much fun and keeps you turning the pages. After everything Claire has been through, one question remains…. Will she finally get her very own Happily EVER after???
Huge thanks to Madison Score and Hambright PR for allowing me to read an ARC of Happily Never Ever!!
November 14, 2024
Rating: 4⭐️/5
“To Do:
- Survive”
Claire Hartley’s latest adventure is a fun mix of mystery, humor, and heart. Right from the start, readers are pulled back into her world of tricky relationships and unexpected danger.
“Old habits die hard.” Almost a year after being drugged, kidnapped, and nearly killed in a client’s hotel, Claire still finds herself glancing over her shoulder in West Haven, even though ESA has been quiet. Claire is easy to root for as she juggles being a dog mom to Rosie, dating the grumpy but lovable Luke, and chasing her career goals—all while dealing with trauma-induced sleepwalking and anxiety.
The story is fast-paced with plenty of twists. A burned-down warehouse and a pool of blood are clear signs that not everyone from ESA is behind bars.
What makes this book shine is how it balances humor with dark moments. Claire’s journey is addictive and leaves you excited for what comes next. Plus, the to-do list in each chapter is a fun touch, adding a relatable layer to Claire’s life!
A big thanks to Hambright PR and Madison Score for sending me a digital ARC of this book!
Release date: 11/07/2024.
“To Do:
- Survive”
Claire Hartley’s latest adventure is a fun mix of mystery, humor, and heart. Right from the start, readers are pulled back into her world of tricky relationships and unexpected danger.
“Old habits die hard.” Almost a year after being drugged, kidnapped, and nearly killed in a client’s hotel, Claire still finds herself glancing over her shoulder in West Haven, even though ESA has been quiet. Claire is easy to root for as she juggles being a dog mom to Rosie, dating the grumpy but lovable Luke, and chasing her career goals—all while dealing with trauma-induced sleepwalking and anxiety.
The story is fast-paced with plenty of twists. A burned-down warehouse and a pool of blood are clear signs that not everyone from ESA is behind bars.
What makes this book shine is how it balances humor with dark moments. Claire’s journey is addictive and leaves you excited for what comes next. Plus, the to-do list in each chapter is a fun touch, adding a relatable layer to Claire’s life!
A big thanks to Hambright PR and Madison Score for sending me a digital ARC of this book!
Release date: 11/07/2024.
November 24, 2024
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
5/5
AH Madison did it again. Another marvelous & hysterical story! I absolutely loved the third & final book in one of my favorite series. Claire is literally one of the best FMCs ever. She’s so relatable & hilarious. We’re back with Claire to finally take down ESA…well hopefully, you’ll have to read to find out!
Here’s what I loved:
💕 first of all I cast all the books I read in my head & this one from the beginning has always been Reese Witherspoon (think Elle Woods-esque, but make her a wedding planner) as Claire & Jared Padalecki as Luke!
🧘🏼♀️ how Claire is working on mindfulness, as this is something I have struggled with my whole life…I get it, girl
🤣 Madison seriously has the ability to make me laugh I cry. This one had so many funny moments. Specifically the scene where Winston runs into Claire’s shin & she thinks he’s a squirrel (I have a fear of squirrels & I’d react the same way)!
🐶 when all the animals escaped out of the cages at the fundraiser event…because also laughed so hard at this.
🥔 middleswarth chip reference because those are my fav chips (pa girlies will know!)
🌹 Rosie (as always) & her new friend Winston!! (We love blind dog representation…our furbaby Swarley is partially blind due to diabetes)
🫶🏻 the positive references to therapy
😭 THE ENDING. THAT IS ALL. 🤐
5/5
AH Madison did it again. Another marvelous & hysterical story! I absolutely loved the third & final book in one of my favorite series. Claire is literally one of the best FMCs ever. She’s so relatable & hilarious. We’re back with Claire to finally take down ESA…well hopefully, you’ll have to read to find out!
Here’s what I loved:
💕 first of all I cast all the books I read in my head & this one from the beginning has always been Reese Witherspoon (think Elle Woods-esque, but make her a wedding planner) as Claire & Jared Padalecki as Luke!
🧘🏼♀️ how Claire is working on mindfulness, as this is something I have struggled with my whole life…I get it, girl
🤣 Madison seriously has the ability to make me laugh I cry. This one had so many funny moments. Specifically the scene where Winston runs into Claire’s shin & she thinks he’s a squirrel (I have a fear of squirrels & I’d react the same way)!
🐶 when all the animals escaped out of the cages at the fundraiser event…because also laughed so hard at this.
🥔 middleswarth chip reference because those are my fav chips (pa girlies will know!)
🌹 Rosie (as always) & her new friend Winston!! (We love blind dog representation…our furbaby Swarley is partially blind due to diabetes)
🫶🏻 the positive references to therapy
😭 THE ENDING. THAT IS ALL. 🤐
November 5, 2024
5 ⭐
2 🌶️
What a stunning conclusion to the trilogy, starring Claire "Freaking" Hartley, her adorable Corgi, Rosie, Luke, the grumpy filmmaker, and the assorted family and friends that made up these delightful books and saw us all to the end. This has been part rom-com, part mystery for three books, and the author keeps us going until the end. We've been with Claire, who from the start has always had to maintain rigid control of everything, and we see her broken down throughout the books as she comes to some significant realizations. (although the sleepwalking incidents make for some of the most hilarious scenes I have ever read.) There were times, I confess, I wanted to smack her; thankfully, the author did it for me, and Claire made the moves to make herself a healthier and saner version of herself. And let me remind you, the author did all this with a deft hand and kept the book's overall rom-com elements going. Bravo! I enjoyed the heck out of this series, and I can't wait to see what Madison Score does next!
2 🌶️
What a stunning conclusion to the trilogy, starring Claire "Freaking" Hartley, her adorable Corgi, Rosie, Luke, the grumpy filmmaker, and the assorted family and friends that made up these delightful books and saw us all to the end. This has been part rom-com, part mystery for three books, and the author keeps us going until the end. We've been with Claire, who from the start has always had to maintain rigid control of everything, and we see her broken down throughout the books as she comes to some significant realizations. (although the sleepwalking incidents make for some of the most hilarious scenes I have ever read.) There were times, I confess, I wanted to smack her; thankfully, the author did it for me, and Claire made the moves to make herself a healthier and saner version of herself. And let me remind you, the author did all this with a deft hand and kept the book's overall rom-com elements going. Bravo! I enjoyed the heck out of this series, and I can't wait to see what Madison Score does next!
November 7, 2024
Oh this book was a perfect distraction from this week, it’s so fun, has some hilarious moments and keeps you on your toes as Claire successfully keeps finding members of a cult ready to kidnap her, which is a skill no one wants to have.
This book focused way less on the party planning side of the story and I found that switch interesting, but also I understand why it did. It felt like the plot of the book matched Claire’s issues in the sense that we, the reader, got to focus on what Claire was focusing and so other stuff fell to the side. I don’t know whether that was intentional or not, but I really loved how it worked well with Claire’s own personal issues for the reader to feel as well.
Claire and Luke really spent this book learning how to prioritize, compromise and everything else it takes to make a relationship work besides intimacy and I loved it. It’s something we so rarely see in books and I treasure when a romance book focuses on a new aspect of a relationship.
I’m not sure if this series is done, but either way I’m exited to see what comes next!
This book focused way less on the party planning side of the story and I found that switch interesting, but also I understand why it did. It felt like the plot of the book matched Claire’s issues in the sense that we, the reader, got to focus on what Claire was focusing and so other stuff fell to the side. I don’t know whether that was intentional or not, but I really loved how it worked well with Claire’s own personal issues for the reader to feel as well.
Claire and Luke really spent this book learning how to prioritize, compromise and everything else it takes to make a relationship work besides intimacy and I loved it. It’s something we so rarely see in books and I treasure when a romance book focuses on a new aspect of a relationship.
I’m not sure if this series is done, but either way I’m exited to see what comes next!
November 10, 2024
The final book in this series was filled with the madcap adventures we’ve come to expect from Claire Hartley. A fantastic mix of romance, mystery and determined girl power.
Claire is working on growing her business and enjoying her relationship with Luke however the bad guys aren’t quite done with Claire. As she tries to pull of the biggest proposal of her career she continues to find herself in danger.
I loved that Claire hit rock bottom in this story and had work on her relationship, self and solving the mystery of who is after her. I also loved how Claire and Luke had to work through important aspects of relationships such as compromise and communication. In the midst of such crazy situations it grounded the story in the reality of a real relationship.
The secondary characters shine and provide fun and supportive cast of family and friends that add to Claire & Luke’s story.
This series is such a fun and easy read that will keep you guessing and laughing until the very end. I look forward to the coming stories from this author.
Claire is working on growing her business and enjoying her relationship with Luke however the bad guys aren’t quite done with Claire. As she tries to pull of the biggest proposal of her career she continues to find herself in danger.
I loved that Claire hit rock bottom in this story and had work on her relationship, self and solving the mystery of who is after her. I also loved how Claire and Luke had to work through important aspects of relationships such as compromise and communication. In the midst of such crazy situations it grounded the story in the reality of a real relationship.
The secondary characters shine and provide fun and supportive cast of family and friends that add to Claire & Luke’s story.
This series is such a fun and easy read that will keep you guessing and laughing until the very end. I look forward to the coming stories from this author.
November 12, 2024
At first I gave this book three stars but the more I thought about it, the more it bothered me.
I really thought the first book was good. A little heavy on the FMC who every ridiculous thing seems happen to but okay.
But the story was believable for a romance.
Then came the second and a little less believable for a story and this murderous fraternity but the romance and characters were fun and I liked the romance between them.
Then comes this one.
First, it was too long. I got bored with it halfway thru. I did go to the end and then backtrack and read the rest but still. It dragged.
Second, the murderous fraternity was a way more ridiculous in this one. Then I had an issue with it was like she threw it every stereotype of what they think this type of man would be. White, listens to country music, rapper (who happen to be white),
And of course the hapless police.
I found the book to frankly be insulting from a story line perspective.
But I like the romance between characters.
I think I would have liked this book series better if she had foregone the horrible murderous fraternity arc and just had three individual stories.
I really thought the first book was good. A little heavy on the FMC who every ridiculous thing seems happen to but okay.
But the story was believable for a romance.
Then came the second and a little less believable for a story and this murderous fraternity but the romance and characters were fun and I liked the romance between them.
Then comes this one.
First, it was too long. I got bored with it halfway thru. I did go to the end and then backtrack and read the rest but still. It dragged.
Second, the murderous fraternity was a way more ridiculous in this one. Then I had an issue with it was like she threw it every stereotype of what they think this type of man would be. White, listens to country music, rapper (who happen to be white),
And of course the hapless police.
I found the book to frankly be insulting from a story line perspective.
But I like the romance between characters.
I think I would have liked this book series better if she had foregone the horrible murderous fraternity arc and just had three individual stories.
November 8, 2024
Oh Claire! Will poor Claire Hartley ever be safe from the ESA? Will she always be looking over her shoulder wondering if some crazed member is ready to do her or one of her loved ones in?
All she wants is to be the best girlfriend to her extra hot grumpy filmmaker boyfriend Luke and dog mom to her Corgi Rosie. She needs to get back to being the proposal planner extraordinaire that she is.
Instead, Claire is stress sleepwalking and binge eating while she is doing it. She's fine. Everything is fine. It's all fine. It'll all be ok, right? Maybe? But when bad things start happening again and the authorities don't seem to have any clues, what's a girl supposed to do? If you want something done right, you have to do it yourself. I couldn't help but think that Claire needed some squirrels from the Squirrel Protection Squad to help. But that's the wrong author. I just hope that Claire can get the last of these creeps once and for all and finally get her happily EVER after.
July 27, 2025
After reading "The Four Engagement Rings of Sybil Rain," I wanted to read another story with wedding vibes. Although I didn't like "Bride or Die" & "Say Yes to Death," I wanted to finish the series. I tandem read listening to the audiobook via Audible while reading along to the Kindle version, Lila Winters did a great job as narrator! I enjoyed the quirky narrative and unique storyline. The MFC was not as annoying as she was in the past, maybe because she's in therapy in this one, haha! After 12% in, I took a break due to reading other books that came available via Libby.(7/16/25) After reading other books, I decided to come back to this one. (7/25/25). Although I liked this one more than the others, I feel like the romance components were lacking; it felt like the main focus was the MFC's past, her paranoia of "ESA" following her, her sleepwalking and her preparing proposal dates for her clients. Overall, it was a quick, fun read with room for improvement! I give it 3🌟
October 28, 2024
I love how descriptive Madison Score is in her writing. I can picture everything happening as I am reading her words.
This series has become one of my favorites.
Luke earned an Emmy nomination and received it on his birthday. Claire spent all of her time working with her clients and neglecting her home life and relationship with Luke. Luke eventually ends up leaving her because she won't stay out of trouble.
Claire ends up having a meltdown with everything falling apart. Will she be able to catch the bad guys and get Luke back?
Eventually she acknowledges that she has to find balance and get help for her sleepwalk. Will Claire and Luke get their Happily Ever After or will it be a Happily Never After for them?
Rosie the corgi is still my favorite character and Winston the blind pug that Clair adopts is a close second!
"You can't buy a dog every time you have a bad day". -Luke
This series has become one of my favorites.
Luke earned an Emmy nomination and received it on his birthday. Claire spent all of her time working with her clients and neglecting her home life and relationship with Luke. Luke eventually ends up leaving her because she won't stay out of trouble.
Claire ends up having a meltdown with everything falling apart. Will she be able to catch the bad guys and get Luke back?
Eventually she acknowledges that she has to find balance and get help for her sleepwalk. Will Claire and Luke get their Happily Ever After or will it be a Happily Never After for them?
Rosie the corgi is still my favorite character and Winston the blind pug that Clair adopts is a close second!
"You can't buy a dog every time you have a bad day". -Luke
November 7, 2024
What an incredible finale to an outstanding series! Following Claire and Luke's relationship journey has been an absolute delight. Watching them navigate the complexities of their burgeoning love while simultaneously managing their successful careers was both inspiring and heart-wrenching. The intense moments of suspense woven throughout the trilogy kept me on the edge of my seat, eagerly turning each page. The cast of secondary characters brought so much depth and enjoyment, their loyalty, humor, and unwavering support adding richness to every scene. And Rosie, the corgi, stole every moment she was in with her charm and warmth. Happily Never After is a perfect blend of romance, suspense, and heartwarming moments that left me thoroughly satisfied. Truly, a series that will linger in my heart for a long time!
November 10, 2024
This is the last book in the Claire Hartley Accidental Mystery Book series and it's a great final book. The suspense and mystery has you on the edge of your seat but with a smile on your face.
Just like the first two books, Claire, our FMC, seems to find shenanigans everywhere she goes. She reminds a little of Jessica Fletcher in Murder She Wrote. When not working her business setting up marriage proposals she's solving crine. And she still has grumpy Luke to give her support and love while he's pursuing his filmmaking career.
This rom-com murder mystery is full of all kinds shenanigans and great secondary characters. This story is well written (with some very minor grammatical errors) full of warm fuzzies and LOLs. If you are looking something lightweight and captivating, this series is a winner.
Just like the first two books, Claire, our FMC, seems to find shenanigans everywhere she goes. She reminds a little of Jessica Fletcher in Murder She Wrote. When not working her business setting up marriage proposals she's solving crine. And she still has grumpy Luke to give her support and love while he's pursuing his filmmaking career.
This rom-com murder mystery is full of all kinds shenanigans and great secondary characters. This story is well written (with some very minor grammatical errors) full of warm fuzzies and LOLs. If you are looking something lightweight and captivating, this series is a winner.
November 25, 2024
It took me a minute to get completely sucked into this story, but when I did, I flew through it.
A first read by me from this author, Madison Score. All I can say is wow! This book is well written and everything blends it in so well. This is a page turner for sure. It kept me in suspense and full of so many surprises that I never saw coming. I loved how the author brought up the previous scenarios and how this affected the main characters of the book.
I probably could have read it in one sitting, but adulting kept getting in the way. I loved the pace of the book. The characters are distinct and realistic. Claire and Luke's relationship flows well in this book. Several of the minor characters really brought the scenes to life and kept the story flowing when I might have been tempted to put it down. But I was glad I kept with it and let the story play out in its entirety.
A first read by me from this author, Madison Score. All I can say is wow! This book is well written and everything blends it in so well. This is a page turner for sure. It kept me in suspense and full of so many surprises that I never saw coming. I loved how the author brought up the previous scenarios and how this affected the main characters of the book.
I probably could have read it in one sitting, but adulting kept getting in the way. I loved the pace of the book. The characters are distinct and realistic. Claire and Luke's relationship flows well in this book. Several of the minor characters really brought the scenes to life and kept the story flowing when I might have been tempted to put it down. But I was glad I kept with it and let the story play out in its entirety.
November 7, 2024
This monster of a book is an epic ending to this series. The sheer amount of attention to detail blows me away. Claire Hartley and her team create the most elaborate, beautiful proposals for couples while being targeted by a team of serial killers. The proposal aspect of the story is over the top and everything a true romantic would love to experience. The action/thriller part is exciting and brilliantly thought out. While there are not many steamy scenes, I really didn't miss them.
Luke, Claire, and the crew are witty, brave beyond reason, loyal (aside from Jack all those years ago), and tons of fun.
You can't go wrong with this series.
I recommend reading the books in order as each builds from the previous.
10/5 stars
Luke, Claire, and the crew are witty, brave beyond reason, loyal (aside from Jack all those years ago), and tons of fun.
You can't go wrong with this series.
I recommend reading the books in order as each builds from the previous.
10/5 stars
November 13, 2024
This author continues to stretch her writing ability with each new book. This is the third and I think final book in this series. It contains all the hijinks, mayhem, and quirkiness that we’ve come to expect from this author. As if all that wasn’t enough it has an adorable corgi, Rosie. Again Claire is sleepwalking, trying to please her handsome husband, Luke and just handle everything on her own, which is never a good thing.
I don’t do spoilers because its not fair to the author or the reader. You need to enjoy this book for yourself.
If you’re looking for some escapism far away from the maddening crowd this book will take to a different kind of maddening crowd. It will be worth it.
I don’t do spoilers because its not fair to the author or the reader. You need to enjoy this book for yourself.
If you’re looking for some escapism far away from the maddening crowd this book will take to a different kind of maddening crowd. It will be worth it.
November 6, 2024
The conclusion of the Claire Hartley series has you on the edge of your seat for the entire ride!
This kooky, clever, rom-com murder mystery was chock full of mayhem, cuddly critters, sisterly mischief, and loads of laughter. Claire seems to find chaos in every corner, whether she's in LA with Luke pursuing both their dreams or back in West Haven making spectacular proposals come to life. From sleepwalking shenanigans, to constant kidnapping, Claire is a walking hot mess in the best way. Luke is a grumpy gooey guy who does his best to support her in every way. The whole series proved to be quite the journey and ended with the perfect proposal!
This kooky, clever, rom-com murder mystery was chock full of mayhem, cuddly critters, sisterly mischief, and loads of laughter. Claire seems to find chaos in every corner, whether she's in LA with Luke pursuing both their dreams or back in West Haven making spectacular proposals come to life. From sleepwalking shenanigans, to constant kidnapping, Claire is a walking hot mess in the best way. Luke is a grumpy gooey guy who does his best to support her in every way. The whole series proved to be quite the journey and ended with the perfect proposal!
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