Everything Good That Happened

by Michelle J. Mann

A sweet, small town romance with friends to lovers and heartwarming second chances, Everything Good that Happened amps up the drama while providing cozy, feel good vibes.

Sydney has had a streak of bad luck, and she blames herself for everything. Recently divorced and looking forward to a fresh start with her two young children, she has absolutely zero intentions of entering the dating world anytime soon, especially with the uncertainty of her ex’s whereabouts and intentions looming over her. Men in general? Totally over them.

Fate intervenes when Sydney’s cousin drags her to a bar for a night out, and they meet Will, the devilishly charming DJ. Will has had his own misfortune, and he just goes with the flow, unmotivated to change his life for the better… until Sydney unintentionally wiggles her way into his heart. As for Sydney, her determination to avoid romance at all costs, slowly crumbles as Will’s easy-going nature gives her a new change in perspective.

In a whirlwind of yearning hearts, family drama, and a rescue bull, Sydney and Will try to keep things platonic, but they’re only one stolen kiss away from falling for each other completely.

This heartwarming love story follows Sydney, an insecure woman overcoming a bad marriage, and Will, an almost too good to be true all-around good guy, in their gradual emotional journey as Will brings out the best in Sydney and makes her wonder if she should rethink her strategy of staying away from men.

Genres: Romance, Womens

339 pages, Hardcover

Published March 25, 2025

About the author

Michelle Mann writes sweet, contemporary small town romances with heartfelt characters and a healthy dose of humor that will have you grinning from ear to ear. She has lived in Texas since she was a very young child and now lives with her husband and two of her children. Her debut novel was released in March 2025 with glowing reviews from readers who felt genuine, deep connections to the characters. Michelle graduated with her master's degree in applied psychology in 2017 and has found a purpose in advocating for individuals with disabilities. Michelle has many hobbies, but particularly loves spontaneous do-it-yourself projects, reading, writing, traveling, and taking care of plants.

Reviews

[Sara Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sydney is recently divorced, recovering from an accident and has two young children. She meets Will and doesn’t plan to fall for him. Of course, he is the perfect man and they quickly fall for each other. As Pops said, “When you know, you know.“

I absolutely loved how her sister, Kennedy, was tied into the story. My heart was so happy when she was given a job and was doing so well at it.

[Katelynn Looney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was SO wholesome and sweet. It was an easy, fast read. I didn’t want to put it down. It was the perfect amount of light hearted and the perfect amount of drama. I also appreciated the fact that it wasn’t a “spicy” romance novel, it was just a great story. Team Sydney & Will!!

[Justin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a touching story about fresh starts, love, and the power of community. With heartfelt characters and an engaging plot, it captures the beauty of second chances and personal growth. A perfect read for those who enjoy uplifting and emotionally rich romances.

[Jessi McCulloch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an absolutely sweet romance book. It gave me all the giddy feels! Had me kicking my feet smiling not able to put this book down! Sydney and will, will be pulling at those heart strings!

[Angelyah Sinsky · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was so good. I finished it in less than 24 hours. Definitely would recommend. It made me blush so many times.

[Scotty W · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was extremely adorable! An amazing job for a debut romance novel

[Ginny Chaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very sweet dual POV small town romance. I really enjoyed it.

[Casandra Kane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh My Goodness!!! This is Michelle’s first novel and she knocked it out of the park!!! This novel was very very different from my normal reads but I am in love with it.

EGTH is such a beautifully written book. The FMC always went through rough things but eventually she’s just had enough and took action. She kicked her deadbeat husband to the curb and was determined to make the life her and her beautiful children deserved. But things were still a bit hard. She struggled and things got a bit worse. One night she decided to go out with her cousin (after she really didn’t feel like it). One of the best decisions she had made now that she looks back on it.

Our MMC is a man who also struggled his whole life and lived in the shadows of his siblings. He had a beautiful voice and was a singer/dj at a local bar.

Their paths had crossed and things had changed for both of them from their. The love story between the two of these people is just incredible. The highs and lows of it all. People were against them and they beat all odds and came out strong. They never gave up on one another.

I cried while reading this book. Like real life tears. There was so much I was able to relate to in this novel. It’s just absolutely beautiful. I CANT WAIT FOR MORE!!!

[Alexis Tait · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gives major spring vibes and I’m so here for everything in it! I was laughing at times, crying at others. Being told from both Sydney and Will’s perspective, I really liked that you got insight into how both were feeling. Will’s perspective was written to be completely believable as a man, unlike some books I’ve read. After finishing this book I have fallen in love with Willow Creek, and I can’t wait to see if there’s more to come. I’d definitely recommend you read this if you’re looking for a book that you can’t put down and gives you all the feels. Thank you so much Michelle Mann for sending me your book!

[Jodi Gallegos · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everything Good That Happened is a sweet, second-chance romance about Sydney, a recently divorced mother, and Will, a charming local DJ.
Sydney is still feeling the effects of being married to a horrible man. She’s not on the lookout for a new guy, but when she goes out with her cousin, she meets Will and the chemistry is immediate.
What I really loved about this story was that the relationship between Will and Sydney was given time to develop. It was a slow build from friendly to truly romantic. The pacing was just perfect though, I never felt like “just get together already!” while reading. The writing was engaging and the story full of emotion.

[Mirandalikestoread · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a super sweet, no spice love story that will leave you with all the happy feelings at the end this is definitely the story for you. Sydney is fresh off her divorce from her abusive cheating, narcissistic jerk of an ex-husband. She is trying to start her life over with her 2-year-old and her 5-year-old when she meets Will. This book deals with a single mom, divorce, abuse, small town, friends to lovers and a meet cute.

[Darla Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very good read!!! I loved the story from start to finish and didn’t want to put it down and finished reading it in one day!!! There are some CWs for this book and I’m not good with telling them bc not much bothers me personally. But there is attempted non consensual. There’s a couple others but to me that’s the biggest warning I’d give.

I can’t wait to see/read what else Michelle writes!



I received an ARC and this review was not required and was left out of my own desire to.

[Ckm2018 · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Everything Good That Happened” by Michelle J. Mann is a heartfelt small-town romance about love, resilience, and second chances. With relatable characters and a charming setting, the story beautifully explores healing, family, and unexpected connections. Mann’s writing is warm and engaging, making this a perfect feel-good read for romance lovers.

[Erica Ramos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not typically a fan of clean romance... but this book is so well written and relatable. You will find yourself relating to the characters and loving them with all their flaws. The cherry on top of this sweet treat is Kennedy. She is a side character that steals every scene she walks into. I recommend this to anyone that enjoys romance without spice but with LOTS of heart.

[Roberta Timmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Small town Romance.

This book was a great read. It was fast-paced, small town romance, a heartwarming second chance romance. If you love a second chance romance with a little bit of drama, then you should read this book.

[IngramSpark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This title was selected for IngramSpark's Indie Title Discovery Spotlight 2025!

A sweet and wholesome, friends-to-lovers romance with a dash of family drama -perfect for fans of cozy, second chance love stories! You will fall in love with these incredible characters.

[Whitney Warrick · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was such a disappointment. The description sounded so promising. But her main characters were so badly written that if the chapter headings hadn't been there, I wouldn't have been able to tell if it was Will or Sydney. The language was stilted and read like a Frosh Lit essay. Dang it.

[Marisa Salas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was on the edge of my seat on some parts and cried at some parts when I say this is a great book I cannot tell a lie!! I hated having to do anything else but read this! 10/10 a wonderful book!

[Natalie Driver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sooooo cute and wholesome!! I loved that there wasn’t a third act breakup but it still kept you intrigued to finish the story. I also loved how realistic it was. Quick and easy read!!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet story! If you’re not the spicy kind of reader but still want all the love, this is your book! Lots of love, laughter and excitement! ❤️

[Misty Spencer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A joyous read!

I was drawn into the story from page 1. Sydneys story hit home for me in so many ways. She and Will chemistry is a real page turner.

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good read. Similar to my actual story. Loved every minute can’t wait to she what she has coming out next!!! Highly recommend!!

[MammaDoughty · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a great palate cleanser.I would really recommend it.It's enjoyable book to read