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The D'Angelos #5
Maybe One Day
A Caribbean cruise opens a widow’s heart to a love she never expected in a breathtaking novel about second chances by New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Catherine Bybee.
Mari D’Angelo’s life is complete. Her children are all married. Two grandbabies fill her days, with two more on the way, and her thriving family restaurant is running on autopilot. Not once in the ten years since she’s become a widow has Mari considered another love of her own. Until she sets sail on a single’s cruise to placate her recently divorced best friend. Then James comes crashing into Mari’s world.
Charming, witty, and with two daughters of his own, James isn’t looking for love either. But Mari is as irresistible as she is beautiful. As their simmering attraction grows, Mari’s resolve to ignore the spark James has ignited slowly breaks away. She promised her beloved late husband she’d find someone new. Maybe that impossible day has come.
Knowing her protective sons would not approve, Mari chooses to keep the romance a secret. After all, there is no reason for her family to know about James if their relationship doesn’t work out. It’s up to James to prove he can be trusted with the heart of a woman he’s come to cherish. But without her family’s approval, their love doesn’t stand a chance.
Mari D’Angelo’s life is complete. Her children are all married. Two grandbabies fill her days, with two more on the way, and her thriving family restaurant is running on autopilot. Not once in the ten years since she’s become a widow has Mari considered another love of her own. Until she sets sail on a single’s cruise to placate her recently divorced best friend. Then James comes crashing into Mari’s world.
Charming, witty, and with two daughters of his own, James isn’t looking for love either. But Mari is as irresistible as she is beautiful. As their simmering attraction grows, Mari’s resolve to ignore the spark James has ignited slowly breaks away. She promised her beloved late husband she’d find someone new. Maybe that impossible day has come.
Knowing her protective sons would not approve, Mari chooses to keep the romance a secret. After all, there is no reason for her family to know about James if their relationship doesn’t work out. It’s up to James to prove he can be trusted with the heart of a woman he’s come to cherish. But without her family’s approval, their love doesn’t stand a chance.
351 pages, Paperback
Published November 11, 2025
1265 people are currently reading
3294 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Bybee
57 books21k followersNew York Times Bestselling Author
USA Today Bestselling Author
#1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author
Amazon #1 Bestselling Author
#1 IndieReader Bestselling Author
RONE Award Winner 2012
Not Quite Dating
Married by Monday
RONE award Winner 2013
Not Quite Enough
Winner of the More Than Magic Award for Paranormal romance 2011
Silent Vows
Finalist RT Award in Contemporary Romance
Fiance by Friday
New York Times bestselling author Catherine Bybee was raised in Washington State, but after graduating from high school, she moved to Southern California with hopes of becoming a movie star. After growing bored with waiting tables, she returned to school and became a registered nurse, spending most of her career in urban emergency rooms. She now writes full-time and has penned the International Bestselling Not Quite series, the MacCoinnich Time Travel series as well as the Internationally Bestselling Weekday Brides series.
Her books have been translated in over twenty languages.
USA Today Bestselling Author
#1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author
Amazon #1 Bestselling Author
#1 IndieReader Bestselling Author
RONE Award Winner 2012
Not Quite Dating
Married by Monday
RONE award Winner 2013
Not Quite Enough
Winner of the More Than Magic Award for Paranormal romance 2011
Silent Vows
Finalist RT Award in Contemporary Romance
Fiance by Friday
New York Times bestselling author Catherine Bybee was raised in Washington State, but after graduating from high school, she moved to Southern California with hopes of becoming a movie star. After growing bored with waiting tables, she returned to school and became a registered nurse, spending most of her career in urban emergency rooms. She now writes full-time and has penned the International Bestselling Not Quite series, the MacCoinnich Time Travel series as well as the Internationally Bestselling Weekday Brides series.
Her books have been translated in over twenty languages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
August 24, 2025
Since the first introduction to this author, I’ve been hooked on her writing and this series. This particular release is very special as it focuses on the matriarch of the family, Mari.
In past books, she tends to come off as older than she truly is. In this book, the author really shows Mari’s personality as we get to know so much more about her.
This grandmother is so much more than the name implies. She’s strong and has developed a thriving business that incorporates members of her family. She loves fiercely, but has given up on looking for love herself. Until now.
I love the plot in this story because it allows us to get an in-depth look at who she truly is, beyond just the grandmother who takes care of her babies. She is a loving person who deserves a second chance at love. Her character develops beautifully as she sets out on a cruise with her best friend.
She’s careful, but we see peeks of her fun side. Sparks of romance that she tends to squash. But I love how the MMC worms his way into her heart. It became a blend of family, but not without a few hurdles along the way.
Bybee writes passionately, with intensity, and delivers a romance that tugs your heartstrings. Set off for an adventure with Maybe One Day. What a beautiful tribute to the FMC, who has done and given so much throughout the prior books. Beautifully written, satisfying romance for the midlife set. Sad to see this series finish.
~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
** Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/maybe-one-da...
In past books, she tends to come off as older than she truly is. In this book, the author really shows Mari’s personality as we get to know so much more about her.
This grandmother is so much more than the name implies. She’s strong and has developed a thriving business that incorporates members of her family. She loves fiercely, but has given up on looking for love herself. Until now.
I love the plot in this story because it allows us to get an in-depth look at who she truly is, beyond just the grandmother who takes care of her babies. She is a loving person who deserves a second chance at love. Her character develops beautifully as she sets out on a cruise with her best friend.
She’s careful, but we see peeks of her fun side. Sparks of romance that she tends to squash. But I love how the MMC worms his way into her heart. It became a blend of family, but not without a few hurdles along the way.
Bybee writes passionately, with intensity, and delivers a romance that tugs your heartstrings. Set off for an adventure with Maybe One Day. What a beautiful tribute to the FMC, who has done and given so much throughout the prior books. Beautifully written, satisfying romance for the midlife set. Sad to see this series finish.
~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
** Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/maybe-one-da...
November 11, 2025
"Maybe One Day" is a great story of family and love for an older heroine. I enjoyed how much trepidation Mari felt as she was dragged by her bestie, Rosa, on a cruise that led to a whole new life for her. Catherine Bybee writes real situations, and the family interactions are just wonderful. Mari's fear of how her children would react to her new relationship was wonderfully written and very real. James was a wonderful hero who recognized to worth of Mari and was willing to take the time needed to win her complete trust and love.
Mari D'Angelo lost the love of her life, Paulo, at the age of 45. For ten years she has raised her family, two sons, one daughter, run the family Italian restaurant and that's about all she has time or energy for. But as her 55th birthday approaches and the next day the 10-year university of the death of Paulo, she begins to realize that although her family and the restaurant are a part of her, there is something missing as they need her less and less. Bestie Rosa is newly divorced from a man who left her years ago and is ready to mingle, and she wants Mari to be her wingman for a singles cruise.
James has been divorced for over ten years and like Marti, his twin daughters and business has ruled his life leaving no room or even the desire for another relationship. His ex is concerned that the girls won't want to leave San Diego for the colleges of their choice unless James shows signs of moving on with his life with a new relationship. So, he's on the singles cruise to make a show of being open to a new relationship.
Marti and James meet on the cruise and have a real spark, but Marti is concerned about her family and wants to keep their friendship a secret until she can decide what it is going to be. James is a patient guy and willing to take it slow. His eyes are on the prize - Mari. All he has to do is win over two very overprotective Italian sons. Piece of cake, right?
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Mari D'Angelo lost the love of her life, Paulo, at the age of 45. For ten years she has raised her family, two sons, one daughter, run the family Italian restaurant and that's about all she has time or energy for. But as her 55th birthday approaches and the next day the 10-year university of the death of Paulo, she begins to realize that although her family and the restaurant are a part of her, there is something missing as they need her less and less. Bestie Rosa is newly divorced from a man who left her years ago and is ready to mingle, and she wants Mari to be her wingman for a singles cruise.
James has been divorced for over ten years and like Marti, his twin daughters and business has ruled his life leaving no room or even the desire for another relationship. His ex is concerned that the girls won't want to leave San Diego for the colleges of their choice unless James shows signs of moving on with his life with a new relationship. So, he's on the singles cruise to make a show of being open to a new relationship.
Marti and James meet on the cruise and have a real spark, but Marti is concerned about her family and wants to keep their friendship a secret until she can decide what it is going to be. James is a patient guy and willing to take it slow. His eyes are on the prize - Mari. All he has to do is win over two very overprotective Italian sons. Piece of cake, right?
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
October 7, 2025
I wasn’t sure if I was interested in Mari’s story and yet, I think this one is my favorite out of the series. I’m reminded, once again, that I need to give things a try. There wasn’t one thing I didn’t like. I was sucked in from the start and adored every minute of James and Mari’s slow burn love story. I really think the author couldn’t have done this any better. Plus, it’s refreshing getting a love story that gave these two a second chance at love while they are in their fifties. I like the message that you’re never too old to find love.
November 14, 2025
While I have read most of the books in this series, this one is my favorite. It is probably because Mari is older and closer to my age than the previous books. I resonated with her, trying to honor her husband, Paulo, while also moving on with her life. It has been ten years after all.
James isn't expecting to find love either when he joins a singles group for a cruise. He wants his daughters to head off to college so they won't have to worry about him alone in their home.
I enjoyed watching Mari and James' relationship grow. While I didn't think they should keep it a secret, I could understand her reasoning, given her sons' actions. It is nice that they are protective, but she isn't a teenager; she is a grown woman and their mother! And it isn't like she is going crazy or disrespecting the memory of their father, who passed away ten years prior. It was more than time for her to move forward with her life outside of her family.
I got a kick out of James' twin daughters. They weren't beyond snooping to figure out what their dad was keeping from them. There is even a scene that brings their families together.
This is a sweet romance with only one somewhat steamy scene. I loved this book, and gave it 5 paws up.
James isn't expecting to find love either when he joins a singles group for a cruise. He wants his daughters to head off to college so they won't have to worry about him alone in their home.
I enjoyed watching Mari and James' relationship grow. While I didn't think they should keep it a secret, I could understand her reasoning, given her sons' actions. It is nice that they are protective, but she isn't a teenager; she is a grown woman and their mother! And it isn't like she is going crazy or disrespecting the memory of their father, who passed away ten years prior. It was more than time for her to move forward with her life outside of her family.
I got a kick out of James' twin daughters. They weren't beyond snooping to figure out what their dad was keeping from them. There is even a scene that brings their families together.
This is a sweet romance with only one somewhat steamy scene. I loved this book, and gave it 5 paws up.
October 11, 2025
I received a free copy of, Maybe One Day, by Catherine Bybee, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book five in the D'Angelos series. Mari D:Angelos is pretty content with her life, widowed for awhile, her children are adults with children of their own. Mari decides to take a single cruise, for a vacation for herself. I dont believe in keeping secrets from your family, yet that is what Mari does in this book. It was a nice read.
November 26, 2025
Another wonderful read by Catherine Bybee and the 5th novel in her "D'Angelos" series.
Family matriarch Mari D'Angelo has been a widow for ten years. Her recently divorced friend Rosa convinces her to go on a singles cruise and Mari agrees mainly to placate her friend.
This is where Mari meets James, a divorced father of two teenage daughters who want him to meet someone so he's not alone when they go off to college.
Both not interested in a new relationship, they meet and become friends. Then the slow burn romance begins.
A touching story about rebuilding life and finding love after loss.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for a copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Family matriarch Mari D'Angelo has been a widow for ten years. Her recently divorced friend Rosa convinces her to go on a singles cruise and Mari agrees mainly to placate her friend.
This is where Mari meets James, a divorced father of two teenage daughters who want him to meet someone so he's not alone when they go off to college.
Both not interested in a new relationship, they meet and become friends. Then the slow burn romance begins.
A touching story about rebuilding life and finding love after loss.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for a copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review.
October 8, 2025
I truly think this is my favorite of the series. Mari and Rosa on the cruise made me giggle. James and Mari and their not so secret, secret relationship.
loved every minute and wish I could read it for the first time again ♡
loved every minute and wish I could read it for the first time again ♡
November 26, 2025
At fifty-five, Mari, the beloved matriarch of the D’Angelo family, leads a full life surrounded by family, love, and the bustling energy of her thriving Italian restaurant. Since losing her husband a decade ago, romance has been the last thing on her mind. But at the gentle urging of her best friend Rosa, Mari agrees to join a Caribbean cruise. There she meets James, a single father coaxed aboard by his daughters, who worry about leaving him behind as they head off to college.
The excursions and activities they share, like the unforgettable waterfall hike, are not only fun to imagine but also provide the perfect backdrop for Mari and James to connect. Their relationship blossoms naturally, reminding us that love often finds us when we least expect it.
I was delighted to see Mari finally step into the spotlight with her own romance. The challenges she and James face feel authentic, grounded in real life rather than contrived drama, and refreshingly free of the typical “third-act breakup.” I was captivated from start to finish, savoring every moment of their heartfelt journey.
I voluntarily read an advanced copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
The excursions and activities they share, like the unforgettable waterfall hike, are not only fun to imagine but also provide the perfect backdrop for Mari and James to connect. Their relationship blossoms naturally, reminding us that love often finds us when we least expect it.
I was delighted to see Mari finally step into the spotlight with her own romance. The challenges she and James face feel authentic, grounded in real life rather than contrived drama, and refreshingly free of the typical “third-act breakup.” I was captivated from start to finish, savoring every moment of their heartfelt journey.
I voluntarily read an advanced copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
November 19, 2025
I'm glad Mari got her second chance at love. This was a sweet story and Bybee did an excellent job from start to finish showing how their relationship grew and blossomed. Great series
November 10, 2025
Mari + James
What a treat to be back with this amazing family.
It's like we never left!
It starts at their typical Sunday feast with all of them together.
And this time we'll find a second love for the mom. Mari.
She hasn't been looking ever since her husband died ten years ago.
But everbody keeps telling her that she's not yet too old at almost 55 to find someone again. And her bestie Rosa is immediately on board with that idea - she wants a new man too after finally being divorced.
So off they go ... on a Caribbean singles cruise!
Adorable!
And James. He's a long divorced dad of almost 18 year old twin girls. His daughters think he needs to date again so that they can leave for college not worried about their dad being home alone.
He doesn't really agree but with some help of the twins' mom, he kinda suddenly finds himself on that cruise too. LOL!
This book was so adorable and funny and sweet and we even cry a bit here and there.
I just adored everything about it.
If you enjoyed the first four books, you will love this one!
I loved reading it and I so need to see this series on TV one day!
And I want to eat all that amazing food please!
MAYBE ONE DAY was so adorable and beautiful and heartbreaking and hilarious and sweet! Just the perfect later-in-life love story we didn't know we needed!
If you can't click the buy-links
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💜
💜
October 31, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley & Montlake for the arc!
**4 stars** An unexpected great read! I honestly thought I wouldn’t particularly enjoy this but I’m happy to be proven wrong.
In the fifth installment of “The D’Angelo’s” series, we follow the sibling’s mother, Mari find her HEA after being widowed for 10 years. All of her children are happily married, a couple with children on the way, Mari is expectedly happy with her current life. Until her daughter Chloe, suggests Mari and her long time friend, Rosa go on a singles cruise. Not expecting to meet anyone, Mari meets a handsome single father, James who was also forced to come onto the cruise. They didn’t expect to have a spark and attraction towards one another. After an unfortunate circumstance on the cruise, the two end up spending more time together and feelings start to develop. The two continue their conversations once they’re back home but are kept under wraps. Mari is navigating how to communicate her new relationship to her kids and James is determined to get on her protective son’s good side.
This book turned out to be one of my favorites of the whole series! I absolutely loved reading Mari and James’ connection and I truly believe Mari deserves happiness. The overall tone of this book sounded much more “mature” than the previous books because we are reading in Mari’s pov but I loved it. At first, I did think it would be strange to read because it felt like reading about my parents (with smut) but it was so well written, I was able to quickly get out of that mindset.
The ending suggests a possible standalone for Mari’s best friend, Rosa and if that’s the case, I look forward to reading that as well!
**4 stars** An unexpected great read! I honestly thought I wouldn’t particularly enjoy this but I’m happy to be proven wrong.
In the fifth installment of “The D’Angelo’s” series, we follow the sibling’s mother, Mari find her HEA after being widowed for 10 years. All of her children are happily married, a couple with children on the way, Mari is expectedly happy with her current life. Until her daughter Chloe, suggests Mari and her long time friend, Rosa go on a singles cruise. Not expecting to meet anyone, Mari meets a handsome single father, James who was also forced to come onto the cruise. They didn’t expect to have a spark and attraction towards one another. After an unfortunate circumstance on the cruise, the two end up spending more time together and feelings start to develop. The two continue their conversations once they’re back home but are kept under wraps. Mari is navigating how to communicate her new relationship to her kids and James is determined to get on her protective son’s good side.
This book turned out to be one of my favorites of the whole series! I absolutely loved reading Mari and James’ connection and I truly believe Mari deserves happiness. The overall tone of this book sounded much more “mature” than the previous books because we are reading in Mari’s pov but I loved it. At first, I did think it would be strange to read because it felt like reading about my parents (with smut) but it was so well written, I was able to quickly get out of that mindset.
The ending suggests a possible standalone for Mari’s best friend, Rosa and if that’s the case, I look forward to reading that as well!
November 20, 2025
✅Maybe One Day is a very sweet romance.
I loved the big Italian family aspect.
As with the previous books in the series, I was happy to see Mari getting her very own story. She is such a loving person. She deserved her time in the lime-light.
Once again author Catherine Bybee delivers a satisfying story.
Can this be read as a standalone? Yes, it could. But, I think reading the previous books would be a good idea. There is much back story to the D’Angelos family that is important to know.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I loved the big Italian family aspect.
As with the previous books in the series, I was happy to see Mari getting her very own story. She is such a loving person. She deserved her time in the lime-light.
Once again author Catherine Bybee delivers a satisfying story.
Can this be read as a standalone? Yes, it could. But, I think reading the previous books would be a good idea. There is much back story to the D’Angelos family that is important to know.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 12, 2025
After watching all of her children find their HEA, Mari is perfectly happy to relish her role as mother and grandmother. That is, until Rosa starts trying to convince her that maybe there’s still room for more in her life. I loved following Mari and James as they meet and are caught off-guard with the realization that maybe they do want something more after all. This book offers plenty of family drama, a few misunderstandings, and some growing pains, but mostly lots of emotion, joy, and love. It is an exhilarating wrap- up to the story of the D’Angelos! Meravigliosa!
November 19, 2025
Aici avem o poveste de dragoste, dar nu una clasica, între adolescenți sau tineri, ci între Mari și James, amândoi cu copii mari ( ea are și nepoți), amândoi dezamăgiți ( ea văduvă, el divorțat) insa unul cu dorința de a regăsi dragostea si unul care nu mai crede în povesti.
Se cunosc intr-o croaziera, nici unul nu poate ignora atracția dintre ei, însă decid să ascundă relația din cauza copiilor.
Îmi pare rău că nu am început seria în ordine, as fi fost curioasa sa o cunosc pe Mari dinainte, ideea de bunica ( are 55 ani) mi-a dat oarecum batai de cap.
Adică, în mintea mea, bunica are alt rol, insa chiar și bunicii au dreptul sa fie fericiți, nu?
Mi-a plăcut prietenia cu Rosa, mi-a plăcut ideea de familie mare și unită, mi-a plăcut gelozia copiilor 🤭
Avem drame de familie, avem copii care își doresc ca părinții lor sa fie fericiți, avem faze amuzante, avem dorinta și scanteie, avem prietenie și suport.
Este o carte plină de sentimente contradictorii din partea a doua persoanje care știu că fericirea exista, dar care au retineri în a-si arata sentimentele public.
Recomand cu drag!
Se cunosc intr-o croaziera, nici unul nu poate ignora atracția dintre ei, însă decid să ascundă relația din cauza copiilor.
Îmi pare rău că nu am început seria în ordine, as fi fost curioasa sa o cunosc pe Mari dinainte, ideea de bunica ( are 55 ani) mi-a dat oarecum batai de cap.
Adică, în mintea mea, bunica are alt rol, insa chiar și bunicii au dreptul sa fie fericiți, nu?
Mi-a plăcut prietenia cu Rosa, mi-a plăcut ideea de familie mare și unită, mi-a plăcut gelozia copiilor 🤭
Avem drame de familie, avem copii care își doresc ca părinții lor sa fie fericiți, avem faze amuzante, avem dorinta și scanteie, avem prietenie și suport.
Este o carte plină de sentimente contradictorii din partea a doua persoanje care știu că fericirea exista, dar care au retineri în a-si arata sentimentele public.
Recomand cu drag!
October 6, 2025
Just when you thought a series was at its end. That there would be no more romance or bonding with the characters, Bybee goes and throws us fans a bone and comes out with Mari's story. I, for one, could not have been happier. The level of excitement I had for this was off the chain and the moment, the very moment I was able to I sat, and read the whole thing in a few hours. And just like that I am now, again, longing for more with the D'Angelo's.
But this book. This book was so good on so many levels. The close proximity, the never wanting to find love again after the "one true love", the excitement and butterflies of mixing two already well-established families, the second chances, the humor, the family bonding and closeness... ITS ALL SO GOOD!
The characters are ones that I want to be friends with. The intimate setting of the restaurant and family always being there is perfect. The sons being protective and the daughters being thrilled. I need to immediately find me a family like the D'Angelo's to bond with and make memories with.
The plot and storyline is one that will stick with me for a long time. Singles cruise where your best friend gets sick and you pretty much have to fall in love with the guy who comes in and saves the day? Yes please.
I'm not sad in the least that Bybee carried on with the D'Angelo's story or this group of characters. My only hope is that she can find ways to carry on with some others so we can all enjoy.
But this book. This book was so good on so many levels. The close proximity, the never wanting to find love again after the "one true love", the excitement and butterflies of mixing two already well-established families, the second chances, the humor, the family bonding and closeness... ITS ALL SO GOOD!
The characters are ones that I want to be friends with. The intimate setting of the restaurant and family always being there is perfect. The sons being protective and the daughters being thrilled. I need to immediately find me a family like the D'Angelo's to bond with and make memories with.
The plot and storyline is one that will stick with me for a long time. Singles cruise where your best friend gets sick and you pretty much have to fall in love with the guy who comes in and saves the day? Yes please.
I'm not sad in the least that Bybee carried on with the D'Angelo's story or this group of characters. My only hope is that she can find ways to carry on with some others so we can all enjoy.
November 18, 2025
Heartfelt Mature Romance
I can always count on Catherine Bybee for an emotional story with terrific banter and a great cast. But to finally get Mari's book? Priceless. The matriarch of the D'Angelo family more than deserved her own HEA after years of hard work and caring for her family. And James was the perfect match. He was honest, fun, family oriented, and patient. Everything Mari needed.
For romance readers who are on the fence about this book due to the main characters being in their mid-fifties, Bybee did a fantastic job keeping it relatable no matter your age. Yes, there were some jokes about physical aspects of aging. But overall, this was more about overcoming grief, finding love and companionship, and family. Highly recommended.
I can always count on Catherine Bybee for an emotional story with terrific banter and a great cast. But to finally get Mari's book? Priceless. The matriarch of the D'Angelo family more than deserved her own HEA after years of hard work and caring for her family. And James was the perfect match. He was honest, fun, family oriented, and patient. Everything Mari needed.
For romance readers who are on the fence about this book due to the main characters being in their mid-fifties, Bybee did a fantastic job keeping it relatable no matter your age. Yes, there were some jokes about physical aspects of aging. But overall, this was more about overcoming grief, finding love and companionship, and family. Highly recommended.
November 14, 2025
When I first learned that the matriarch of the D’Angelo family was getting her own story told, I wasn’t sure whether I wanted to read it but I’m so glad I did.
This was an engaging slow burn, second chance romance story that had me hooked from the beginning. Mari agrees to go on a single’s cruise to help a friend move forward after divorce but she certainly is not looking for love herself. Then she meets James and what an introduction it is between this pair.
Again, Ms Bybee proves love can happen anywhere and anytime. Also, in this book she also shows that you’re never too old to find love. And there’s no one more deserving of a second chance at love than Mari. She’s taken care of her family for so many years and now it’s time to finally have something special of her own.
Overall, I would recommend this book if you’ve read the other stories in this series or if you enjoy a silver fox hero or older couples finding a second chance at love.
This was an engaging slow burn, second chance romance story that had me hooked from the beginning. Mari agrees to go on a single’s cruise to help a friend move forward after divorce but she certainly is not looking for love herself. Then she meets James and what an introduction it is between this pair.
Again, Ms Bybee proves love can happen anywhere and anytime. Also, in this book she also shows that you’re never too old to find love. And there’s no one more deserving of a second chance at love than Mari. She’s taken care of her family for so many years and now it’s time to finally have something special of her own.
Overall, I would recommend this book if you’ve read the other stories in this series or if you enjoy a silver fox hero or older couples finding a second chance at love.
November 12, 2025
I’ve read all the books in the series so I was surprised to see book #5 was about Mari who is the mom of the kids in the first 4 books. In my mind she was in her late 60’s so imagine my surprise when I found out she’s younger than me!! 😂 I enjoyed the book and could totally relate to both her and James. Being a divorced parent myself, the struggles that go along with dating are just different the second time around. The book was easy to read and I felt like the characters were very authentic with real life internal conflicts. Great second chance book!
November 22, 2025
This is the last book in the series and is about Mari, the family's matriarch, finding love again. She's never entertained this idea since losing her husband a decade ago but is pressured to go on a cruise with her best friend. She meets James and has a wonderful time with him but now is afraid to continue seeing him in the open where her children could find out. There is a lot of James and Mari sneaking around until finally things are exposed in a funny way. I liked this book and it was a perfect ending to the series.
October 8, 2025
Reading a Catherine Bybee book is like meeting up with old friends. In this case it's the D'angelo family. All the younger generation are settled. Now it's the turn of the family matriarch to have a relationship.
From meeting, keeping the new romance secret, kids thinking it's wrong. Can they make a go of the relationship in the midst of this large, noisy and judgemental family?
Enjoy I definitely did and hoping to read Rosa's story
From meeting, keeping the new romance secret, kids thinking it's wrong. Can they make a go of the relationship in the midst of this large, noisy and judgemental family?
Enjoy I definitely did and hoping to read Rosa's story
November 18, 2025
As always, Bybee brings a sweet, happy, romantic story and hooray for it being Read & Listen on Kindle Unlimited! This series has been a delight and the Italian accents in the audiobooks make me happy 🥰
Source: Kindle Unlimited Read & Listen
Source: Kindle Unlimited Read & Listen
October 13, 2025
Mari D’Angelo, the family matriarch, finally gets her story. After 10 years of being a widow, things have changed for Mari. She goes on a cruise and meets James. James is divorced and has twin daughters who are about to graduate from high school.
Such a great series and all stand-alone books.
Tropes: second-chance, romance
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Such a great series and all stand-alone books.
Tropes: second-chance, romance
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 5, 2025
Love it!
October 7, 2025
Mari and James' story was so good. It was sweet, funny, romantic, tense a couple times with more than a perfect HEA. Rosa had just gone through a divorce from a husband that had left quite awhile ago. She talked Mari into going on a singles (sort of) cruise with her so they could meet men. Mari had no interest in meeting men, but she would go and support Rosa as they had been friends for decades. The cruise was alot of fun and James and Mari slowly got to know each other. We also got to visit with all of Mari and James' families. I highly recommend reading this whole series
I got this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review
I got this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review
October 5, 2025
In this 5th installment in The D'Angelos, Rosa is finally divorced and convinces Mari to take a cruise and step out of her comfort zone (the restaurant). As 50-something single women with grown children, they set sail with completely different expectations -- Rosa wants to enjoy her newly single status, and Mari is tagging along for moral support. The story takes on friendship, family, and love from a new perspective than in previous tales in the series -- and it's delightful. A must-read for fans old and new alike!
November 18, 2025
Maybe One Day by Catherine Bybee is a touching story about rebuilding life after loss and finding unexpected strength along the way. The characters feel real and relatable, and the themes of healing, friendship, and second chances are beautifully done.
Some moments are a bit predictable, but the emotional warmth and sincerity make this an uplifting, comforting read. A lovely story about resilience and moving forward—one day at a time.
Some moments are a bit predictable, but the emotional warmth and sincerity make this an uplifting, comforting read. A lovely story about resilience and moving forward—one day at a time.
October 5, 2025
What a perfect ending this series. Catherine Bybee did justice to Mari’s story. She captured the love story but also detailed how it feels to start over at a later age. This family is the best. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. Go get your copy in November!
September 14, 2025
Mari & James ❤️
🍝Restauranteur and matriarch Mari D’Angelo has been a widow for the past decade. She’s lived in the Little Italy part of San Diego almost her whole life, is devoted to her children and their families. Her best friend Rosa convinces her to live a little, meet new people and to join a Caribbean cruise.
🍝Businessman James has 17 year old twin daughters, who will be heading off to college soon. His ex wife and friend Cindy convinces him to join a cruise her friend is arranging.
🍝The friendship between James and Mari develops gradually, but with meddling children and full lives, it might take them time to let their attraction develop into more.
✏️I have loved reading the previous books in this series, where Mari and Rosa’s children find happiness, and I wasn’t expecting her story to join theirs. Or to find so much pleasure in reading how the two fifty somethings found each other and second chances at happiness. I loved how James was cautious and thoughtful about Mari’s feelings, how hard he loved his daughters and the respect he had for his ex; what a gem. Mari’s self awareness mixed with her feisty nature makes for a charming read. A lovely conclusion to this emotional series ❤️
Read an eARC copy courtesy of Netgalley and the publisher
My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pub Date 11 Nov 2025
Connect with me: http://www.instagram.com/read.athon2021
🍝Restauranteur and matriarch Mari D’Angelo has been a widow for the past decade. She’s lived in the Little Italy part of San Diego almost her whole life, is devoted to her children and their families. Her best friend Rosa convinces her to live a little, meet new people and to join a Caribbean cruise.
🍝Businessman James has 17 year old twin daughters, who will be heading off to college soon. His ex wife and friend Cindy convinces him to join a cruise her friend is arranging.
🍝The friendship between James and Mari develops gradually, but with meddling children and full lives, it might take them time to let their attraction develop into more.
✏️I have loved reading the previous books in this series, where Mari and Rosa’s children find happiness, and I wasn’t expecting her story to join theirs. Or to find so much pleasure in reading how the two fifty somethings found each other and second chances at happiness. I loved how James was cautious and thoughtful about Mari’s feelings, how hard he loved his daughters and the respect he had for his ex; what a gem. Mari’s self awareness mixed with her feisty nature makes for a charming read. A lovely conclusion to this emotional series ❤️
Read an eARC copy courtesy of Netgalley and the publisher
My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pub Date 11 Nov 2025
Connect with me: http://www.instagram.com/read.athon2021
September 26, 2025
Absolutely loved this book, was a pleasure to go back to the D'Angelos after a break with the Heirs series. Having got all her children married off, it is time for the matriarch of the family to find a love interest, but only because she is helping her best friend Rosa. Great story, with lots of twists and humour. Nice visiting with the rest of the family again after a little break. Left me wondering if we will re-visit in the future to give Rosa a happy ending. Catherine Bybee never lets you down, I have read all her books and enjoyed them all.
September 21, 2025
But time had done what time does and softened the pain until it was nothing more than a passing memort."
"We're not meant to be on this roller coaster of life alone."
When I heard that Catherine Bybee was writng a fifth book for The D'Angelo series, I was so excited. I love this family and how they interact with each other. In Maybe One Day, Ms Bybee explores mature love and second chances. Mari, the family matriach, accompanies her friend, Rosa, on a singles cruise. She meets James, a divorced Dad of teenage twins. What ensues is a discovery of second chance of love and blending of families.
I so hope that Ms. Bybee writes another installment of this series, perhaps revolving around Rosa. I loved this book so much! Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
"We're not meant to be on this roller coaster of life alone."
When I heard that Catherine Bybee was writng a fifth book for The D'Angelo series, I was so excited. I love this family and how they interact with each other. In Maybe One Day, Ms Bybee explores mature love and second chances. Mari, the family matriach, accompanies her friend, Rosa, on a singles cruise. She meets James, a divorced Dad of teenage twins. What ensues is a discovery of second chance of love and blending of families.
I so hope that Ms. Bybee writes another installment of this series, perhaps revolving around Rosa. I loved this book so much! Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
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